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Spicy Chili Butternut Stew

Name: Spicy Chili Butternut Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups cubed); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 large onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime (optional)

Posted on August 22, 2025

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The spicy chili butternut stew is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine diving into a bowl that’s bursting with flavors, textures, and aromas that dance around your senses. This dish is not just food; it’s comfort in a bowl. The creamy butternut squash mingles with zesty spices, creating an experience that’ll make your taste buds sing! If you’re anything like me, the first spoonful will have you dreaming of cozy nights by the fire, wrapped in your favorite blanket. pumpkin chili recipe.

Every time I whip up this spicy chili butternut stew, I am reminded of those crisp fall evenings spent with friends, sharing stories and laughs over a steaming pot. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, making it perfect for gatherings or simply a delightful weeknight dinner. tomato basil soup recipe creamy coconut curry soup The anticipation builds as the fragrant spices fill your kitchen, promising an amazing flavor experience that’s just waiting to be savored.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful spicy chili butternut stew is easy to prepare and will impress family and friends alike
Its rich flavors create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion
Vibrant colors and enticing aromas make this stew visually appealing while being versatile enough to customize based on your preferences
Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or a side for your favorite protein!

I still remember the first time I made this stew; my family couldn’t stop raving about it!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Butternut Squash: Choose bright orange squash for sweetness; peel and cube for even cooking.
Black Beans: Canned black beans work great here; they add protein and texture without extra hassle.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor and heat.
Onion: A large onion adds depth; sauté until golden brown to enhance sweetness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the stew with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on this! For more inspiration, check out this Fresh Herbed Tuna Salad recipe.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavors.
Cumin and Chili Powder: These two spices are essential; they provide warmth and earthy notes to the stew.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the onions and garlic to perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning is key—taste as you go to reach your preferred level of seasoning.
Lime Juice (optional): A squeeze of lime brightens flavors at the end; add just before serving for freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with cumin and chili powder. Cook until aromatic, about one minute—this makes your kitchen smell divine!

Incorporate Vegetables: Add cubed butternut squash, diced tomatoes (with juices), and black beans into the pot. Mix everything well to combine those delightful flavors.

Pour in Broth: Slowly add vegetable broth while stirring gently. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat—watch those bubbles dance!

Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.

Add Final Touches: Once cooked, season with salt, pepper, and lime juice if using. Stir well before serving—this step elevates all those wonderful flavors!

Enjoying this spicy chili butternut stew will leave you feeling warm inside while also bringing joy to anyone who shares it with you! For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini recipe.

You Must Know

This Spicy Chili Butternut Stew is a cozy hug in a bowl
The rich flavors blend perfectly, and the aroma will have you daydreaming of autumn evenings
Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes clean-up as easy as pie—or should I say stew?

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add butternut squash and spices before simmering everything together for optimal flavor absorption.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in your favorite proteins like chicken or beans for extra heartiness, or toss in greens like spinach to boost nutrition without losing flavor. festive chicken fajita bowls.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your butternut squash is diced evenly for consistent cooking
Always taste as you go, adjusting spices to suit your palate
Letting the stew sit overnight enhances all those cozy flavors!

It was a chilly Sunday afternoon when I first made this Spicy Chili Butternut Stew. Friends gathered around my kitchen, their faces lighting up as they inhaled the warm, spicy aroma wafting through the air.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for butternut squash?

You can use sweet potatoes or pumpkin as excellent alternatives for butternut squash.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip any meat and load up on beans for protein.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Add more or less chili powder based on your heat preference for a customized kick.