Chorizo, Black Bean and Winter Squash Chili

• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 lb spicy chorizo sausage, casings removed
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 cup winter squash, like kabocha, pumpkin, acorn, delicata or butternut, unpeeled, cut into ½" - 1" cubes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• (1) 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups low sodium chicken stock, divided*
• (2) 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained, divided
• 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup
• salt and pepper, to taste
• chopped green onions, for garnish

1. Heat the oil over medium heat in a large saute pan or Dutch oven. Add the chorizo to the pan and break up into pieces with a wooden spoon. Add the red onion and saute for 5 minutes or until the chorizo is cooked through and the onion is softened. Add the kabocha squash and saute one minute, then add the garlic and spices and saute for 30 seconds more. Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and 1¾ cups of the chicken stock, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat slightly and simmer.

2. Once simmering, mash 1/2 can of the black beans with the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken stock and add to the pot (this will thicken the broth slightly). Add the remaining beans and maple syrup, and stir until incorporated. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the kabocha squash is tender. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve garnished with chopped green onion and enjoy!