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Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili
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Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili

Barefoot Contessa Turkey Chili is a lighter version of traditional beef chili, utilizing ground turkey as the primary protein. This substitution not only reduces the dish's fat content but also lends a distinct, mildly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the robust chili spices. Ina Garten's recipe is packed with layers of flavor, thanks to a generous mix of fresh vegetables, beans, and a carefully chosen blend of spices. It's a comforting, one-pot meal that epitomizes home cooking at its best.

Ingredients

  • - 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • - 1 large onion chopped
  • - 2 garlic cloves minced
  • - 1 red bell pepper diced
  • - 1 yellow bell pepper diced
  • - 1 pound ground turkey preferably dark meat
  • - 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • - 2 cans 15 ounces each black beans or kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • - 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro plus more for garnish
  • - 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • - 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • - 1 cup chicken stock or water

Instructions

  • Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Brown the Turkey: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground turkey, and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until the meat is no longer pink.
  • Add the Flavors: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  • Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock or water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. The chili should have a rich, developed flavor.

Notes

To further reduce the fat content, you can opt for ground turkey breast, though this may result in a slightly less moist chili.