Sharon BrownWhen serving Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili, it’s essential to think about great accompaniments. A warm, crusty loaf of sourdough bread pairs beautifully, perfect for dipping. You might also consider a side of cornbread, its slight sweetness balances the chili’s spices.
A light, refreshing side salad, perhaps with a citrus vinaigrette, adds brightness that complements the rich flavors of the chili. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside some tortilla chips. Crunchy and salty snacks can provide that satisfying contrast, bringing a fun element to your meal.
As the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and joy. Recently, I stumbled upon a fantastic recipe from the Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten. Her turkey chili is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Using lean ground turkey makes it healthier without compromising on flavor. It’s rich, hearty, and easy to prepare—so it’s a winner in my kitchen!
What is Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili?
At its core, Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili is a simple chili with a twist. The combination of lean turkey, beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of flavors. You get a little heat, a little sweetness from the tomatoes, and a hearty texture from the beans. Each ingredient serves a purpose, and the end result is something memorable!
Why This Recipe Works?
There are a few key reasons why this turkey chili stands out:
- Healthier Alternative: The use of ultra-lean ground turkey makes this dish significantly lighter than traditional chili, which often calls for fatty beef. This lean protein still delivers on taste while keeping health in mind.
- Layered Flavor: Each step and ingredient adds to the overall flavor profile. From sautéing the onions and garlic to the spices that meld beautifully, it all contributes to a complex yet harmonious taste.
- Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies the cooking process. You can throw almost everything into a pot and let it simmer. In no time, you’ll have a delicious bowl of chili ready to enjoy.
- Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients can easily be swapped based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Whether you want to add more vegetables or use different beans, the recipe can adapt without losing its essence.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili
To create this delightful turkey chili, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ultra-lean ground turkey (99% fat-free)
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 (15 oz) cans of dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can of sweet corn kernels, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
For garnish: shredded cheese, sliced avocado, crumbled tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Turkey Chili Seasoning:
- 4 tablespoons chili powder (McCormick recommended)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
How To Make This?
Let’s break down the process into easy steps:
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Step 2: Brown the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir constantly until the turkey is browned all over. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the turkey is completely cooked, with no pink remaining.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
At this point, it’s time to introduce the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the tomato paste next, ensuring it is well mixed. Then add the rinsed kidney beans and sweet corn, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Spice it Up
Now it’s time for the spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the spices to infuse into the chili.
Step 5: Simmer and Add Spinach
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. After it thickens to your liking, add the fresh spinach. Stir until it wilts and is incorporated into the chili.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chili into bowls, and don’t skimp on the garnishes! Top with shredded cheese, slices of avocado, crumbled tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for that extra creaminess.
Tips
To make your chili even better, consider these suggestions:
- Cook Low and Slow: If you have time, let it simmer longer. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust spices according to your preference. If you love heat, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes amazing the next day. Make it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge.
- Freeze for Later: Portion some out and freeze it. It freezes well, making for an easy meal on busy days.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding different veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to the mix. They can boost flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Information
How to Store The Leftovers?
Storing this turkey chili is simple. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can safely be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers or freezer bags. Ensure to label and date them. It should last in the freezer for about three months.
Recommended Side Dishes for Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili
Pair your turkey chili with these engaging side dishes for a fuller meal:
- Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread is a delightful contrast to the savory chili. Bake a batch from scratch or pick up some from your favorite bakery. A hint of honey brushed on top only enhances the flavor.
- Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad with ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, and a splash of lime will add a zesty kick. Toss in some red onion or cilantro for an extra layer.
- Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips is always a winner. The textures and flavors complement each other superbly.
- Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw provides a crunchy counterpart to the warm chili. The tanginess of the dressing can brighten up the entire dish.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some great substitutes:
- Ground Turkey: Can be substituted with ground chicken, turkey breast, or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even fresh tomatoes in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth or water can step in if you’re low on chicken broth. Just add some extra seasonings to make up for flavor.
- Dark Red Kidney Beans: Black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas can replace kidney beans for a different texture and color.
Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ultra-lean ground turkey 99% fat-free
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
- 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 15 oz cans of dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can of sweet corn kernels, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 4 tablespoons chili powder McCormick recommended
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This usually takes around 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir constantly until the turkey is browned all over. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the turkey is completely cooked, with no pink remaining.
- At this point, it’s time to introduce the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the tomato paste next, ensuring it is well mixed. Then add the rinsed kidney beans and sweet corn, stirring to combine all the ingredients.
- Now it’s time for the spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and sea salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the spices to infuse into the chili.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally. After it thickens to your liking, add the fresh spinach. Stir until it wilts and is incorporated into the chili.
- Ladle the chili into bowls, and don’t skimp on the garnishes! Top with shredded cheese, slices of avocado, crumbled tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream for that extra creaminess.
Notes
- Cook Low and Slow: If you have time, let it simmer longer. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust spices according to your preference. If you love heat, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: This chili tastes amazing the next day. Make it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge.
- Freeze for Later: Portion some out and freeze it. It freezes well, making for an easy meal on busy days.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding different veggies like zucchini or mushrooms to the mix. They can boost flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Making Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili is more than cooking dinner. It’s about the warmth and comfort that a simple bowl of chili brings to your table. Follow the recipe, add your personal touch with garnishes or sides, and enjoy a dish that’s not just filling but also full of flavor. Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
