There’s something so satisfying about a hearty bowl of chili—especially when it’s filled with the cozy warmth of roasted butternut squash and the earthiness of black beans. This Butternut Squash & Black Bean Chili is the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the most comforting aromas and wraps you in a cozy hug with every spoonful. It’s healthy, hearty, and perfect for when you need something nourishing yet comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (it’s a game changer!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (for that refreshing kick)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional toppings: Creamy avocado slices, a few slices of fresh jalapeño, or a dollop of dairy-free sour cream
Instructions:
- Warm up your kitchen: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and butternut squash cubes. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and the onions turn a lovely translucent color. This is when the magic starts to happen.
- Add the garlic and spices: Stir in the garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cinnamon. The scent will fill your kitchen with the most comforting, mouth-watering aroma. Cook for about 1 minute, just enough to let those spices come alive.
- Bring it all together: Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together, and let it come to a gentle simmer.
- Let it simmer: Turn the heat down, cover the pot, and let the chili cook on low for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the process as the squash softens and the flavors deepen. You’ll start to feel that comforting warmth filling the air.
- Blend it (optional): If you like your chili creamy and thick, grab an immersion blender and blend a little bit of the chili directly in the pot (or transfer a portion to a blender). This will create a lovely, smooth texture while still keeping some of the chunky goodness.
- Finish with lime and season: Stir in the lime juice to bring a little brightness to the flavors. Taste the chili and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. It should be a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky.
- Serve with love: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. If you like, add a few slices of creamy avocado, a little heat from fresh jalapeños, or a dollop of dairy-free sour cream. Each bite will feel like a warm embrace.
Enjoy the Comfort:
This Butternut Squash & Black Bean Chili is the kind of meal that not only nourishes your body but also soothes your soul. It’s rich in flavor, packed with nutrients, and the perfect dish for those chilly nights when you want something hearty but healthy. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, this bowl of chili will make you feel cozy, content, and truly cared for.
So, take a moment to savor the goodness—one comforting spoonful at a time.