Bella's Belly Blog

Gluten-free, Dairy-free

Dive into a bold, comforting fusion of flavors with our Vodka Sauce Chili! This gluten-free and dairy-free twist on the classic chili combines the creamy richness of vodka sauce with a touch of heat, making it a perfect meal for cozy nights or meal prep. We start with wholesome ingredients and fresh veggies, and then add a splash of gluten-free vodka for depth. Finished with coconut cream, this chili is incredibly smooth, satisfying, and free from any dairy or gluten, so it’s easy on the gut and packed with anti-inflammatory goodness. If you’re looking for a nutrient-dense, flavor-packed dish that’s both unique and nourishing, our Vodka Sauce Chili is sure to be your new favorite.

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Yield: 6-8 servings

Prep time: 20 mintes

Total time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Vodka Sauce:

• 1 tbsp Earth Balance (or other dairy-free butter)
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1.5 oz. vodka
• 6 oz can tomato paste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup coconut cream or coconut milk

For the Chili:

• 6 cups bone broth
• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• 5–6 carrots, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder

For the Turkey:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp cumin
• Dash of paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Vodka Sauce

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the Earth Balance butter.
2. Add the minced shallot and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the tomato paste and garlic, stirring for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized. Add the vodka and sauté for 2-3 minutes to allow for the alcohol to burn off.
4. Pour in the coconut cream or milk and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Reduce heat to low and simmer while you prepare the chili ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey

1. In a separate skillet, heat a drizzle of EVOO over medium heat.
2. Add the ground turkey, taco seasoning, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Build the Chili

1. To the pot with the vodka sauce, add the bone broth, crushed tomatoes, black beans, great northern beans, chickpeas, bell pepper, jalapeño, carrots, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the veggies to become tender.
3. Add the cooked turkey to the chili and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or your favorite chili toppings.
2. Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and protein-rich vodka sauce chili!