Hey, friends! If you’re looking for a warm, hearty dish that’s both healthy and packed with flavor, look no further than this delicious turkey chilli. I love making this recipe because it’s so simple, yet it feels like such a treat. By swapping regular beef for turkey mince, it’s lower in fat but still just as tasty. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this turkey chilli is sure to satisfy everyone. Plus, it’s full of protein, so you’ll feel full and energized after eating it! Let’s jump into the recipe and get cooking!
Method
Cook the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and red pepper. Stir them around occasionally, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and become slightly caramelized. This step is important because it brings out the sweetness of the onion and the flavor of the red pepper, which forms the base of your chilli.
Add the Garlic
Next, add the crushed garlic to the pan with the onions and peppers. Stir it all together and let the garlic cook for about 2 minutes. This will allow the garlic to release its wonderful aroma and add extra depth to the dish. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter if overcooked.
Brown the Turkey Mince
Once the garlic has cooked, it’s time to add the turkey mince. Stir it into the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Let the turkey cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to get the turkey nicely browned all over, so it doesn’t just steam in the pan. Make sure to break up any large chunks as it cooks to ensure that the meat browns evenly.
Add the Spices
When the turkey is fully browned, it’s time to add the seasoning. Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure the turkey mince is well coated with the spices. This is where the chilli really gets its rich and bold flavor, so take your time to mix it all in evenly.
Combine with Beans and Passata
Now, pour in the tin of beans (I like to mash half of them for a thicker, creamier texture, but you can leave them whole if you prefer). Next, add the passata and about 100ml of water to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed. The passata will provide a rich tomato base for the chilli, while the water helps to thin it out a little so it doesn’t become too thick.
Simmer the Chilli
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. The simmering process is key to allowing all the flavors to meld together, creating a deliciously rich and comforting chilli. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will deepen, so don’t rush this step!
Necessary Tools
- Pan or large skillet
- Chopping board and knife
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Can opener
- Measuring spoons
Turkey Chilli: A Healthy and Satisfying Meal for All!
Cuisine: TurkishDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes40
minutes50
minutesIngredients
1/2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
500g 2% fat turkey mince
500g passata
1 tin of beans (kidney or mixed)
Seasoning 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp chilli powder, salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chopped onion and red pepper until soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the crushed garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the garlic release its fragrant aroma.
- Stir in the turkey mince and cook until it’s browned all over. This should take about 10 minutes. Make sure to break up the mince as it cooks.
- Once the turkey is browned, add the cumin, paprika, chilli powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the turkey with all the delicious spices.
- Pour in the beans (I like to mash half of them for a thicker texture), then add the passata and 100ml of water. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Notes
- When cooking the turkey, be sure to break it up into small pieces as it browns to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Don’t skip the simmering time – it helps all the flavors meld together and gives the chilli that rich, comforting taste.
- If you like a thicker chilli, feel free to mash half the beans for a creamier texture, or add a little extra water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey chilli is amazing on its own, but you can also pair it with a few sides to make it even more satisfying. Serve it over rice for a fuller meal, or pair it with a side of warm, crusty bread. For a healthy twist, top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle some shredded cheese on top!
Fun Fact
Did you know that turkey mince is lower in fat and higher in protein than beef mince? It’s a great choice for anyone looking to eat a bit healthier without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s just as versatile as regular mince – you can use it in tacos, burgers, and more!
Conclusion
Turkey chilli is the perfect recipe for a cozy night in or a satisfying meal after a long day. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s a dish the whole family will love. You can make it in under an hour, and it’s packed with protein to keep you full and energized. Whether you enjoy it with rice, bread, or on its own, this chilli will definitely become a regular in your meal rotation! Happy cooking!
