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- 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 2 medium carrots, diced - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1 cup pumpkin puree - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes - 4 cups vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 tablespoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - Salt and pepper to taste

Simple Pumpkin and Chickpea Chili

Embrace the flavors of fall with this Cozy Pumpkin & Chickpea Chili recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty dish combines nutritious pumpkin and protein-packed chickpeas, creating a comforting meal that both vegetarians and meat lovers will adore. The blend of spices brings warmth and depth, while optional toppings like cilantro and avocado add a delightful twist. Easy to customize and packed with health benefits, it’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, finely diced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (ensure it's not pumpkin pie filling)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice

2 cups vegetable broth

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional toppings: freshly chopped cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, lime wedges

Instructions
 

Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes translucent and begins to soften.

    Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and diced carrots. Continue to sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender.

      Mix in Chickpeas and Spices: Add the rinsed chickpeas to the pot along with the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to combine, cooking for about 2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

        Incorporate Pumpkin and Tomatoes: Pour in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes (including their juice), and the vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the pumpkin is fully incorporated.

          Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes. This cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom.

            Season to Taste: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and freshly ground pepper to elevate the flavors.

              Serve: Ladle the chili into individual bowls and garnish generously with your choice of optional toppings—fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a refreshing squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  30 minutes | 55 minutes | Serves 4-6

                    Enjoy this warm and hearty chili, perfect for cozy nights in!