At the first sign of the beginning of fall, whether it’s the slightest chill in the air, the first changing leaf, or the first football game of the season, it’s time to pull down the slow cooker and get ready for the best part of fall – cozy comfort food.
The most iconic fall food is chili, of course. It’s a comforting food fit for cool weather no matter what part of the country you live in. Warm and hearty, and perfect for serving a crowd, chili was made for sharing with friends and family while tailgating, at fall potlucks, and around the dinner table. Simple, delicious, and heartwarming – that’s what fall food is all about.
Stirring a simmering pot of chili on the stove for hours on a crisp fall day used to be my idea of a relaxing weekend. But with a new baby in the house, I’m all about hands-off meals these days. I’m choosing more low maintenance meals that leave me with leftovers and using my slow cooker more than ever, just in time for the busy fall season!
While I’m don’t follow a vegetarian diet, there are some days when a hearty, veggie-filled bowl of goodness is exactly what I want. This Apple Sweet Potato Chili is perfect for those times.
Stemilt Gala apples, sweet potatoes, and red bell pepper add a nice, subtle sweetness to this meatless chili without any added sugar. The flavors perfectly complement the smoky chipotle and spicy nutmeg, while two kinds of beans add some heft thanks to a filling protein and fiber combination that sticks with you for hours! It’s an unexpected but delicious fall twist on chili that you’ll crave all season long.
This Apple Sweet Potato Chili is a great dish that you can meal prep for the week ahead if you know you’re going to be busy in the evenings, or if you need something to pack for lunch on weekdays. I love having it in my fridge to heat up for lunch, especially when it’s cold outside and I’m craving something cozy and warm!
Top your Apple Sweet Potato Chili with sliced Gala apples and a bit of sour cream, or try some shredded cheese and cilantro or avocado. I like to eat it with some cornbread for a complete meal that’s both filling and delicious!