We're full into Autumn and feeling a chill in the air, so we’re ready to warm things up with one of our go-tos: chili! But this isn’t just any chili—our Smoky Turkey & Bean Chili is made with Montreal-based Épices de Cru’s Hot & Smoky Chili Spice Blend, and their spectacular cumin, which brings an extra depth and complexity to every bite. Ideal for filling up before those trick-or-treaters hit the door.
Spice Spotlight: Épices de Cru 🌶
A true Canadian gem, Épices de Cru has been bringing incredible, high-quality spices to our kitchens for over 25 years. Based in Montreal, this family-owned company has built its reputation on the belief that whole spices, freshly ground, make all the difference in cooking. And they’re absolutely right—just a quick moment with a mortar and pestle or an old-school coffee grinder can elevate your dish from great to truly special.
Their Hot & Smoky Chili Spice Blend is a must-have for chili season! This unique blend features seven varieties of mild, hot, and smoky chilis—including Cacho de Cabra, Chipotle, and Mora—that add a bolder, richer flavour than your average chili powder. The combination of these chilis creates a vibrant mix that’s perfect for dishes that need a bit of heat and a lot of character. Use it to add depth and a hint of smoke, as a swap for traditional chili powder wherever you want a punchier flavour. Want even more smoke? Add a straight up hit of their excellent Chipotle Chili Flakes.
The Cumin: Cumin is a staple in so many cuisines, but Épices de Cru Cumin is next-level. It’s intensely bold and fragrant, with a warm, earthy taste that takes any dish up a notch. Try toasting it lightly before grinding—this amplifies its aroma and adds even more depth to soups, stews, and, of course, chili!
This chili also makes for a fantastic, filling meal for gatherings—whether you’re hosting a Halloween get-together or planning a laid-back weekend meal. And it’s freezer-friendly, so if you have a big enough pot, double the recipe and save some for a busy night or workday lunches when you need a little extra warmth. Set up a chili bar and let everyone have fun adding their favourite toppings:
- Grated cheddar
- Sour cream
- Chopped avocado
- Crushed tortilla chips
- Fresh cilantro
Flavour Tip:
The impact of freshly ground spices is incredible, especially in hearty dishes. Don’t skip the grind—those fragrant oils are only released when the spices are freshly cracked, bringing bold, complex layers to your chili and beyond.
The impact of freshly ground spices is incredible, especially in hearty dishes. Don’t skip the grind—those fragrant oils are only released when the spices are freshly cracked, bringing bold, complex layers to your chili and beyond.
We’d love to see how you’re spicing up fall! Snap a pic of your chili or any dish featuring Épices de Cru, and tag us @Flavourfull for a chance to be featured in our next newsletter!
Cheers to spicing things up this season!
Smoky Turkey & Bean Chili
3 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
2 cups diced celery
2 cups diced red pepper
2 tbsp chopped garlic
2 tsp ground Cumin
1 lb ground turkey
2 x 828 mL oz cans plum tomatoes, squished up with their juices
1 L chicken stock (homemade or low sodium)
2 x 540 mL cans beans such as black, Mexican red, or kidney beans, drained & rinsed
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp dried oregano
salt & freshly ground pepper
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large wide pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 2 min or until softened. Add celery and red peppers , season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5 min or until softened and lightly browned. Add garlic, chili powder and cumin and sauté, stirring for 1 min or until fragrant.
- Turn up heat to medium-high, push vegetables to side of pot and add turkey. Sauté turkey, stirring to break meat up into small pieces, for 4 min or until turkey is no longer pink, season with salt and pepper.
- Add tomatoes, chicken stock, canned beans, vinegar and oregano and bring to a boil. Cover pot with a little gap to let steam escape, and turn heat down to a gentle simmer. Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, or until flavours have mellowed and combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serves 4-6
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