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Smoky Turkey Chili with Pomegranate and Corn

This turkey chili features ground turkey seasoned with smoky spices, cooked with roasted corn and rich tomato base. It is thick and hearty, with a vibrant hue and a flavorful, slightly spicy texture, enriched with a splash of pomegranate molasses and cinnamon for depth.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground turkey preferably lean
  • 2 cups roasted corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cinnamon ground
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses for tang
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
    1 lb ground turkey
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant and slightly golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
    1 lb ground turkey
  3. Pour in the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
    1 lb ground turkey
  4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and cinnamon evenly over the meat, stirring to coat the turkey in spices. Continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
    1 lb ground turkey
  5. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
    1 lb ground turkey
  6. Add the roasted corn kernels to the pot, stirring until evenly incorporated. Simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
    1 lb ground turkey
  7. Stir in the pomegranate molasses for a tangy, slightly sweet boost, then taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to help the flavors blend.
    1 lb ground turkey
  8. Check the consistency; if it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen, then simmer a few more minutes. Remove from heat once the desired thickness and flavor are achieved.
  9. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh toppings if desired, and enjoy the vibrant, smoky flavors with a deep, rich finish.