Cozy Apple Sage Turkey Chili for Chilly Evenings

The moment you hear the sizzling sound of turkey browning in a pan and the intoxicating aroma of sage wafting through your kitchen, you know something magical is about to happen. This Apple Sage Turkey Chili is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, perfectly blending savory turkey with the crisp sweetness of apples.

Picture this: you’re cozied up on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, as a bowl of this chili warms your hands and your heart. It’s an experience that reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingles with delicious foods, and everyone leaves with full bellies and happy memories.

There was this time when I made this chili for a potluck, and my friend Dave asked if he could take home a Tupperware full of leftovers. Little did he know that it would disappear by the time he reached his car!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, ground turkey is perfect for this chili; look for organic options if possible.

• Apples: Use sweet varieties like Honeycrisp for a delightful contrast to the savory spices.

• Fresh Sage: Nothing beats fresh sage’s aromatic qualities; it adds depth to the flavor profile.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with herbs to enhance the overall taste without extra effort.

• Onion: A classic base ingredient; yellow onions work best here for sweetness as they caramelize.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor; chop it finely or use a press for convenience.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding richness to the chili.

• Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices create warmth and complexity; adjust quantities based on your heat preference.

• Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the veggies to perfection; extra virgin is always my go-to.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Apple Sage Turkey Chili

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Next, toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until it releases that glorious aroma. The smell alone could make anyone swoon!

Now add ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned all over—about 7-10 minutes should do the trick.

Once browned, sprinkle in cumin and chili powder, stirring well to coat the meat evenly with those spicy flavors. Let it cook another 2 minutes before moving on.

Next comes our star ingredient: diced apples! Stir them into the mix along with canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; let it bubble away for about 20-25 minutes until thickened.

Finally, stir in freshly chopped sage right before serving; its fragrance will elevate your chili from good to spectacular! Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for an unforgettable meal.

Now you’ve got yourself an amazing pot of Apple Sage Turkey Chili that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the turkey until it’s browned and crumbly. Next, add onions and garlic until fragrant, then toss in spices before adding tomatoes and apples. Stir well and let simmer for a cozy 30 minutes. This method layers flavors beautifully while keeping everything perfectly tender.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or beef for a different twist. Adding black beans or corn can enhance the texture and flavor, while some extra chili powder ramps up the heat if you’re feeling spicy! Personalize it further with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese or fresh cilantro.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Apple Sage Turkey Chili in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. For freezing, let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer bags or containers where it can last for up to three months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

Nothing quite beats those moments when friends gather around your table, bowls steaming with chili as laughter fills the air. I remember one chilly autumn night when my friends devoured this dish so quickly that I barely got a second helping!

FAQ

What makes Apple Sage Turkey Chili unique?

Apple Sage Turkey Chili stands out due to its sweet-tart apple addition paired with savory sage. This unexpected combo elevates traditional chili into something extraordinary while offering a delightful depth of flavor that surprises every bite.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Absolutely! Making this chili ahead of time allows flavors to meld beautifully as it sits in the fridge overnight. You can simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.

Is this chili spicy?

The spice level is easily adjustable based on your preferences! By adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños, you can kick up the heat significantly or keep it mild by using fewer spicy ingredients.

What do you serve with Apple Sage Turkey Chili?

This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over rice for a heartier meal. Fresh toppings like avocado slices and sour cream add creaminess that perfectly complements its flavors.

Conclusion for Apple Sage Turkey Chili

In summary, Apple Sage Turkey Chili is not just another bowl of comfort food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and inviting aromas. With simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether cozy nights in or lively gatherings with friends. So grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and prepare to impress everyone at your table!

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Apple Sage Turkey Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Apple Sage Turkey Chili is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish that combines savory ground turkey with the sweet crunch of apples and fragrant sage. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty chili warms both your hands and heart. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite, evoking memories of laughter-filled gatherings around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, diced
• 1 cup fresh sage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon; cook until browned (7-10 minutes).
4. Sprinkle in cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Mix in diced apples, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in freshly chopped sage before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg