Cuban-style Turkey Meatball Chili

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Soups Cuban Moderate
Cuban-style Turkey Meatball Chili
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This Cuban-style chili is a flavorful and healthy variation of a classic dish. By substituting ground turkey for pulled pork, we've created a lighter version of this hearty dish without sacrificing flavor. Combining spices, vegetables, and olives gives this chili a unique and authentic taste.

What You Will Need

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 pound ground turkey (93/7)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Chili:

  • 2 slices turkey bacon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano or rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1-2 Anaheim or Cubanelle peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 16-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup green olives with pimento, chopped
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cup or more chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf

The Process

Step 1 - Prepare the Meatballs:

  • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  • Mix well, then form into 1-tablespoon-sized meatballs.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2 - Make the Chili:

  • In the same skillet, fry the turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and chop.
  • Add the cumin, thyme, oregano, garlic, bell pepper, and chili peppers to the skillet. Cook and stir until softened.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, olives, raisins, capers, white wine, vinegar, cilantro, broth, and bay leaf.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, or until thickened.

Step 3 - Combine and Serve:

  • Add the cooked meatballs and crumbled bacon to the chili.
  • Simmer for a few more minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through.
  • Serve the chili over rice or with crusty bread.

Enjoy your homemade Cuban-style turkey meatball chili!