Butternut Squash Chili (Vegetarian Chili Recipe) + VIDEO - A Spicy Perspective (2024)

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Three SistersButternut Squash Chili Recipe:A Native American recipe withsquash,corn, andbeans. This Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili Recipe is rich and inviting!

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Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Nothing screams fall like a hearty bowl of chili.

The blend of chiles, spices, meat, and vegetables is a family favorite, we love to make the moment the weather turns cool.

Although we lovemeatychilis, I’ve discovered makingvegetarian chilifor groups is the way to go. Our vegetarian and vegan friends are happy, and the meat-eaters won’t even miss the meat in the veggie chili, if it’s well made.

Today’s amazing Vegetarian Chili Recipe is bold and rustic with chunks of butternut squash, peppers, beans, and corn. It can be made on the stovetop or in a slow cooker!

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Three Sisters Chili Recipe

“The Three Sisters” in the title is derived from an old tale about Mexican and Navajo gardening culture… Corn, beans, and squash grow best when planted together.

The corn stalks offer support for the other crops. The beans pull in nitrogen from the air to benefit the soil. And the big squash leaves protect the soil to keep it moist and prevent weeds.

The Mexicans and Navajos believe that because these vegetables grow well together, they pair well together in recipes as well. We totally agree!

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Squash Chili Recipe

This vegetarian chili is hearty and filling. Made with fresh harvest produce that wasmeant to betogether, you certainly won’t leave the dinner table feeling hungry.

Imagine sitting by a fire, wrapped in a chunky woven blanket, in perfect crisp 55 degree weather. Then someone hands you a big bowl of Three Sisters Butternut Squash Chili, colorful, aromatic, and steaming hot.

It sounds picture-perfect, right?

No matter where you’re seated, we believe you’ll enjoy these flavors so reminiscent of fall.

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Three Sisters Butternut Squash Chili

Ingredients

  • Butter– To saute the vegetables and provide richness. However, you can use olive oil in the recipe to make vegan chili.
  • Sweet Onion and GarlicCloves– For deep zesty flavor.
  • Poblano Peppers– For smoky flavor and mild spice.
  • Butternut Squash– Sister #1. Soft, sweet, and a great thickening agent in the chili.
  • Red Kidney Beans– Sister #2. Or pinto beans, to fill out the chili and provide texture. (15-ounce cans)
  • Corn– Sister #3. To offer sweetness andpopin the recipe.
  • Crushed fire-roasted tomatoes– Or diced tomatoes, for a hearty tangy note.
  • Vegetable broth– Smooth and flavorful.
  • Green chiles– To bring the heat. You can use mild or hot chiles.
  • Ground cumin– Smoky essence. Just a tablespoon.
  • Dried oregano– For deep herbal sweetness.
  • Bay leaf– Creates balance in the soup.
  • Cilantro– To add freshness at the end.
  • Salt and Pepper– Can you cook a good meal without it?
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How To Make Vegetarian Chili

Instructions

  1. Prep and chop all the produce.Cut the butternut squash in half, then peel with a vegetable peeler. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard them. Chop into even 1/2-inch cubes.
  2. Sauté the veggies.Set a large sauce pot/dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, chopped poblano peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté to soften. Add in the cubed butternut squash, rinsed beans, tomatoes, broth, green chiles in juices, corn, and all spices. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, but save the cilantro for later.
  3. Simmer.Simmer the chili until the squash is fork-tender, stirring occasionally. Then uncover and simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken. Once the squash is fork-tender, remove the bay leaf. Taste, then salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Stir in the cilantro and serve alongside your favorite cornbread or tortilla chips. You can even sprinkle some cheese on top if you wish.

Get The Full (Printable) Three Sisters Butternut Squash Chili/Best Vegetarian Chili Recipe Below!

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Crockpot Easy Vegetarian Chili Recipe

On the go? You can make Three Sisters Chili in the crockpot!

  1. Sauté the onions, poblano peppers, and garlic on the stovetop.
  2. Then dump the veggies into a large 6+ quart slow cooker and add all remaining ingredients.
  3. Cover and cook on high for2-4 hours, or on low for5-7 hours.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the butternut squash not softening?

Make sure the butternut squash is cut into equal ½ inch cubes, so that they cook evenly.You can also turn up the heat if needed.

Can you freeze Three Sisters Chili?

Yes, you can! Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the freezer. Then thaw to room temperature before you reheat it.

How long does Three Sisters Chili last?

This chili will last 5-7 days in the fridge if you store it in an airtight container. That makes this a great make-ahead meal! You can also store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm up the whole lot in a sauce pot or a single serving in the microwave.

Can I make this soup in the crockpot?

Of course! The directions for the crockpot version of Three Sisters Chili are included in the recipe below.

Butternut Squash Chili (Vegetarian Chili Recipe) + VIDEO - A Spicy Perspective (10)

More Fabulous Chili Recipes

  • Pumpkin Chili Recipe
  • The Best Beef Chili Recipe
  • Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Chili
  • Zesty Turkey Chili Recipe
  • New Mexican Chile Verde
  • Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
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Check the printable recipe card below for the nutrition information calories, carbohydrates, protein, potassium, fiber, vitamin c, and calcium percentages.

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Three Sisters Butternut Squash Chili Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

A Vegetarian Chili recipe inspired by the Native American legend of the Three Sisters: corn, squash, and beans.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

US CustomaryMetric

Instructions

  • Prep and chop all the produce. Cut the butternut squash in half, then peel with a vegetable peeler. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard. Chop into even 1/2 inch cubes.

  • Set a large 7-8 quart saucepot over medium heat. Add the onions, chopped poblano peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5 minute to soften.

  • Add in the cubed butternut squash, rinsed beans, tomatoes, broth, green chiles in juices, frozen corn, and all spices. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, but save the cilantro for later.

  • Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then uncover and simmer another 5 minutes to thicken. Once the squash is fork-tender, remove the bay leaf. Taste, then salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the cilantro and serve.

Video

Notes

Slow Cooker Instructions: Yes, you can make this is a crockpot! Sauté the onions, poblano peppers, and garlic on the stovetop. Then dump the veggies into a large 6+ quart slow cooker and add all remaining ingredients. Cover and cook on high for 2-4 hours, or on low for 5-7 hours.

Cooking Notes: Poblano chile peppers are mild and smoky. However, every once and a while you can stumble upon a spicier poblano. If you are worried about spicy heat, smell the poblanos as you chop them, then decide how much to add in.

Nutrition

Serving: 1.25cups, Calories: 200kcal, Carbohydrates: 36g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 15mg, Sodium: 1027mg, Potassium: 906mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 10g, Vitamin A: 10791IU, Vitamin C: 74mg, Calcium: 125mg, Iron: 4mg

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Author: Sommer Collier

Making this recipe?Follow us on Instagram and tag @ASpicyPerspective so we can share what you’re cooking!

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Butternut Squash Chili (Vegetarian Chili Recipe) + VIDEO - A Spicy Perspective (2024)

FAQs

How to make chili spicier? ›

Spicier chili: to make chili even spicier, don't remove the ribs or seeds from the jalapeño. You can also add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes or dice up another hot chili pepper. I recommend trying the recipe as stated and letting the flavors sit for a few hours before adding additional spice.

What gives chili depth of flavor? ›

When making chili, don't forget to load up on veggies for an added layer of flavor and texture. Some classic options include fresh garlic, bell peppers, and onions. The vegetables will add a noticeable crunch and pop of color to your recipe. Fresh herbs like cilantro, basil or parsley can also enhance the flavor.

How do you spice up chili? ›

If you want more of a smoky flavor, add cumin, Spanish paprika, ancho chili powder, or a combination. If you are looking for more heat, add cayenne, crushed red pepper, or Hungarian paprika. If it's too spicy add a little brown sugar and some sweet paprika.

What is the secret to good chili? ›

Here Are Our Six Secret Ingredients for the Best Chili
  • Canned Puréed Pumpkin. You already use this to make pumpkin-infused quick breads and waffles, but did you know you can add it to chili too? ...
  • Cocoa Powder. ...
  • Coffee. ...
  • Maple Syrup. ...
  • Pepperoncinis (Plus Liquid) ...
  • Root Beer.
Sep 2, 2022

What makes chili taste spicy? ›

Capsaicin is the main substance in chilli peppers that provides the spicy heat. It binds to receptors that detect and regulate heat (as well as being involved in the transmission and modulation of pain), hence the burning sensation that it causes in the mouth.

What is the most important spice in chili? ›

Most Common Chili Spices. Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of top notch comfort food.

What does cinnamon do for chili? ›

Cinnamon. The beauty of ground cinnamon is that it brings a warmth to your chili, without being spicy. It works well with other flavors commonly found in chili (like tomato, cumin and chile powder) so you only need a little bit to achieve the desired balance.

What liquid is best for chili? ›

Chili cooks low and slow, so you need enough liquid to tenderize the meat and keep everything from drying out. That liquid should also add flavor to the chili, so use chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, or beer.

Should chili be thick or soupy? ›

Traditionally, we expect a robust, spicy base, meat and/or beans, perhaps some bonus veggies, and a thick, rich consistency. Unlike soups, which are brothy, or even bisques, which are creamy yet thinner, chili is meant to be more stew-like; it's a definite stick-to-your-ribs creation.

What does cumin do for chili? ›

Here's what to consider: Cumin: Cumin is an aromatic spice known for its earthy, warm, and slightly nutty flavor. It's commonly used in various cuisines, including Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern dishes. Cumin is not particularly spicy, but it adds depth and richness to the flavor of a dish.

What can you add to chili for extra flavor? ›

Spices: While cumin, chile powder, and cayenne pepper tend to be common additions to many chili recipes, there's a broad world of flavor out there to experiment with. Try a little fenugreek, turmeric, garam masala, or sumac to layer in more complex flavors. Smoky paprika is my own personal favorite.

Why do you put vinegar in chili? ›

Cooking is often about finding a balance between these basic taste sensations, which is why apple cider vinegar can be exactly what you need to make your pot of chili a little brighter. Acids enhance the salty, umami-rich flavors already present in chili, and round out the sweetness, adding intricacy to the dish.

What are the best beans for chili? ›

The best beans for chili are pinto, kidney, and black beans, like in this easy and tasty recipe. This 3-bean chili freezes great for meals later in the week. If you prefer thinner chili, add an extra can of tomato sauce. The green chiles are not hot and add a wonderful flavor, so don't be afraid to use them.

How important is oregano in chili? ›

Oregano is an important herb in chilli con carne. The oregano that you'll most commonly find is the Mediterranean kind, commonly found in Greek and Italian cooking.

Why do you put honey in chili? ›

It sounds weird to put honey in chili, but it really works here. There is a lot of spice and strong flavors in this chili from habanero peppers, chipotle peppers. The honey helps balance all the spicy flavors without being overly sweet and plays well with the fruity flavor of the habanero peppers.

Does chili get spicier the longer it cooks? ›

From long cooking, the capsaicin could distribute throughout the food in a way that will make it more palatable, but the capsaicin content will not drastically change.

Does sugar make chilli hotter? ›

Sugar works to counteract the heat caused by capsaicin in peppers so adding a touch of honey or sugar can tone down a spicy dish. The downside is that the sweetness may alter the flavor of your dish so it is best to add a little at a time and taste test it to make sure you maintain a balance between savory and sweet.

How do you make hot sauce spicier? ›

What is the best way to make a hot sauce hotter? - Quora. The least intrusive way would be to add cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can add just about as much as you like and it won't be very noticeable, except for being hotter.

Does chili powder make chili spicy? ›

Mild chili powder isn't very spicy and has a kick that adds more flavor than spice. Medium chili powder increases the heat, but still to a manageable amount. More heat can easily be added to chili powder seasoning by adding more ground chiles to the blend.

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