BISON BUTTERNUT SQUASH CHILI

This is one of my favorite chili recipes because it has a ton of beautifully bright butternut squash, with the comforting taste of bison meat!  It is the best kind of food to cook on a cold and chilly day.  This chili can be customized to your liking, by adding your favorite chili toppings before devouring.  Feel free to add or take away ingredients to fit your dietary needs and taste buds.  Enjoy this warm and healthy bowl of chili!

BISON BUTTERNUT SQUASH CHILI

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 peppers (any color), chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 3-4 cups butternut squash, chopped
• 1 lb. ground bison
• 2 cups water
• 1 - 15 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 - 15 oz. can diced tomatoes 
• 1- 15 oz. can cannelli beans or any beans, drained
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 2 tsp celery seed
• ground pepper and salt, to taste
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper, optional

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OPTIONAL TOPPINGS

• Cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• Plain Greek yogurt, dollop
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Lime juice

1.  In a large soup pot, heat 1 tbsp of oil on medium heat.  Add in garlic, onions, peppers, carrots, and butternut squash. Saute until squash gets slightly soft and tender. 

2.  While the veggies are sauteing, heat another tablespoon of oil in a medium-size skillet on medium heat.  Add bison and cook until browned, stirring often to break the meat into tiny chunks. 

3.  Once meat is cooked, add it into the large pot.  Also, add water, beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Stir altogether and let cook on low for about 30 more minutes.  

4.  Serve this delicious chili with your favorite toppings! 
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      Always craving good food,
                 Jillian