Panera’s Turkey Chili: Copycat Recipe

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Panera bread‘s Turkey Chili is a beloved comfort food, a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. But today, we’re taking this classic recipe and embarking on a global culinary adventure. By blending the rustic charm of American comfort food with the vibrant spices of international cuisines, we’ll create a dish that’s both familiar and exotic.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground turkey

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for garnish
  • Tortilla chips, for serving
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Avocado, for serving

    • Preparation Process:

    1. Brown the Ground Turkey: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
    2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    3. Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 1-2 hours, or until thickened.
    4. Season and Serve: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime wedges, tortilla chips, sour cream, and avocado.

    Total Time: 2-3 hours

    Serving Ideas:

    Elevated Presentation: Serve the chili in individual bowls, topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

  • Mexican Fiesta: Serve with warm corn tortillas, shredded cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños.
  • Asian Fusion: Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and a drizzle of soy sauce or fish sauce. Serve with a side of steamed rice or noodles.

    • A Global Culinary Fusion

    This reimagined turkey chili is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from various cultures, each contributing its unique flavor profile:

    American Comfort Food: The hearty base of ground turkey, beans, and broth is a classic American comfort food staple.

  • Mexican Influence: The chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper add a spicy kick, reminiscent of Mexican cuisine.
  • Mediterranean Flair: The olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs bring a Mediterranean touch.
  • Asian Inspiration: The soy sauce or fish sauce, and the use of fresh cilantro and lime, add an Asian twist.

    • By blending these diverse culinary traditions, we’ve created a dish that is both familiar and exciting, a true celebration of global flavors.