Fall Chili with Pumpkin and Chicken

Originating from the Southwestern United States, chili is a dish traditionally prepared with meat, beans and tomatoes. This reinvented, seasonal version replaces the tomatoes with pumpkin puree for an autumnal touch. Pumpkin provides a natural sweetness and creaminess that pairs harmoniously with the tangy flavor of black garlic BBQ spices and chili peppers. The ground chicken offers a welcome lightness, and the diversity of vegetables adds depth to this hearty dish. Cooking in the oven at a low temperature allows the flavors to flourish, making this chili a comforting and balanced meal.

Ingredients :

• 500g chopped chicken
• 3 onions, chopped
• 2 chili peppers, sliced
• 4 carrots, cut into small cubes
• 10 stalks of celery, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup red beans, soaked for 10 hours
• Black garlic salt, to taste
• 5 tablespoons (or more) black garlic BBQ spice
• 4 cups pumpkin puree

Steps :

1. Preparation of ingredients : Chop the onions, slice the peppers, cut the carrots and celery stalks into small pieces.
2. Cooking the chicken : In a large skillet, cook the ground chicken until cooked through. Reserve.
3. Cooking the vegetables : In the same pan, add the onions, peppers, carrots and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Incorporating the beans and spices : Add the previously soaked kidney beans, black garlic salt and black garlic BBQ spices. Mix well.
5. Adding the pumpkin puree : Add the pumpkin puree to the pan and mix until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Mix and transfer : Return the ground chicken to the pan and mix everything thoroughly.
7. Baking : Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Preheat the oven to 300°F (around 150°C) and bake for 4 hours.
8. Finalization : After 4 hours, check the consistency and flavors. Adjust seasonings if necessary.
9. Serving : Serve hot, possibly accompanied by toast or a green salad to add freshness.

Wine suggestions:

1. Pinot Noir : This light and fruity red wine with notes of red berries can harmoniously complement the rich and spicy flavors of chili. Its slight acidity brings a touch of freshness which balances the dish.
2. Gewürztraminer : For a bolder option, this white wine with spicy and floral aromas has enough character to pair with BBQ spices and black garlic, while bringing a note of lightness and freshness to the dish.

Each wine has its particularities, so don't hesitate to experiment to find the combination that you like best. Enjoy your meal and cheers!