Black Bean and Pumpkin Chili

Ok, before you cringe and run away screaming at the name of this recipe, stop! It's good, I promise! The pumpkin that you think of as having a sweet, cinnamon taste, like pumpkin pie, actually is not sweet at all! It blends perfectly with the beans and seasonings in this recipe to make a thick, delicious chili!

Ingredients:
1 medium red or yellow pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves minced garlic
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained (makes them lower in sodium and is easier on the tummy)
3 c chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped (optional, I left it out)
1 lb ground turkey or 2 1/2 c cubed turkey or chicken, cooked
1 can solid packed pumpkin
1 can diced tomatoes, juice and all
2 tsp dried parsley
2 tsp chili powder
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 packet low sodium taco seasoning

What to do with it all:
1. In a large skillet, saute the onion and pepper in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the garlic, cook for one minute longer.
3. Transfer to a crock pot, add in remaining ingredients.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until heated through.