Chili. This brings to mind cold nights, sitting by the wood stove and a warm blanket. Enjoy this very healthy and delicious chili as the skies begin to darken early. Using bison and butternut squash bring a local flair to this family favorite.

Lisa B. Smith, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with the Southern Ute Shining Mountain Health and Wellness.

Buffalo Chili

Ingredients

• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground buffalo
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons coriander (optional)
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 4 ripe plum tomatoes, chopped
• 3/4 cup green chilies, chopped
• INSTEAD OF 9 and 10, you can use 2 cans RO-TEL diced tomatoes and green chilies
• Two 14 oz. can of low sodium black beans, drained
• 3 cups water or low sodium chicken or beef broth (adding more as needed for desired consistency)
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Stovetop Directions

1. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in large skillet, add buffalo and cook until done over medium-high heat, 5-8 minutes. Stir often to break up chunks.
2. Push meat to sides of pan, turn down heat to medium, add 1 teaspoon oil, cook onions and garlic until tender about 3-5 minutes, stir onions and meat together.
3. Mix in chili powder, cumin and coriander.
4. Add squash, beans and water/broth, stir all ingredients together.
5. Simmer mixture uncovered, 40-45 minutes or until squash is tender.
6. Add chia seeds, salt and pepper (optional.)

Crockpot Directions

1. Cook buffalo, onions and garlic as directed in step 1 and 2 above.
2. Place in crockpot and add remaining ingredients. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 7-8 hours.
3. Serve topped with fresh cilantro, plain Greek yogurt, shredded cheese as desired.

Nutrition Facts: Calories 272; Fat 8g; Total Carbohydrates 42g; Dietary Fiber 14g; Protein 15g; Sodium 155 mg

Serves 8-10