We have several versions of chili in the Cook Smarts archives, but this is our first white chili. A blend of spices and the addition of green salsa give this chili a flavor that is different than traditional tomato-based versions. Smarts: White chili tends to be a bit less thick than its red counterpart. The optional extra step below to blend a bit of the chili with an immersion blender will help to thicken it.
Green salsa / Salsa verde
- 1/3 cup
(mild, medium or hot; depending on your spice preference)
Limes
- 1
, wedges
Avocados
- 1
, chopped
Cilantro
- 2 Tbsp
, chopped
Pepitas / pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup
Prep
Poblanos / Sweet potatoes / Garlic / Jalapenos - Prep as directed. Remove seeds from jalapenos if you prefer a less spicy chili. Store poblanos and sweet potatoes in one container. Combine garlic and jalapenos in another container. (Can be done up to 5 days ahead)
Season chicken - Combine chicken with garlic, jalapenos, cumin, oregano, chili powder and salt. (Can be done 1 day ahead)
Slow cook chili - Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and saute until brown, 5 to 7 minutes. In the bowl of a slow cooker, combine poblanos, sweet potatoes, chicken, turnips, stock and salsa. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 to let the flavors come together.
When chili is finished, taste and season with some salt and pepper. You can add some hot sauce if you’d like. (Note: If you would like the base of the chili to be thicker / creamier, you can blend a small amount of it with an immersion blender.)
Set out toppings - extra salsa or hot sauce, lime wedges, avocados, cilantro and pepitas.
Ladle chili into bowls and let everyone finish their bowls with toppings. Enjoy!