Dog Friendly Bonfire Chilli

A hearty, healing bowl for cosy autumn nights — perfect for sharing with your dog!

As the nights draw in and the scent of woodsmoke fills the air, there’s nothing better than a warming bowl of chilli to celebrate bonfire season.

This one is made with a twist as you can share it with your dog.

Packed with natural, wholesome ingredients that nourish from the inside out, this dog-friendly chilli recipe is grounding, gut-healing, and full of gentle anti-inflammatory magic – a healthy homemade dog meal that celebrates the best of autumn.

So, light the fire, grab a spoon, and let’s make some kitchen magick happen.

Ingredients (Serves you and your dog)

500g minced beef

2–3 bacon rashers, chopped

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 large sweet potato, diced

1 medium white potato, diced

2 carrots, chopped

A handful of spinach, roughly chopped

4–5 mushrooms, sliced

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

½ tin (about 200g) chickpeas, rinsed

¼ cup brown rice

¼ cup quinoa

1 tsp turmeric

Pinch of black pepper (just a little, to activate the turmeric)

1 tbsp tomato purée

1 tsp manuka honey

1.5 litres water

Ingredient Benefits for Holistic Dog Nutrition

Minced Beef – A rich source of protein and essential amino acids to build muscle, repair tissue, and support energy levels in both dogs and humans.

Bacon Rashers – Adds flavour and healthy fats; just a small amount gives a boost of taste while supporting skin and coat health.

Garlic – In small, safe amounts, garlic can support immune health and has natural antibacterial and anti-parasitic properties.

Spinach – A leafy powerhouse packed with iron, antioxidants, and fibre to support digestion and vitality.

Sweet Potato – Full of beta-carotene, fibre, and slow-release carbs for sustained energy and a healthy gut.

White Potato – Provides additional energy and potassium; helps make the dish hearty and satisfying.

Carrots – Great for eye health, skin, and immunity thanks to their vitamin A content.

Mushrooms – Contain beneficial polysaccharides that support immune function (use only dog-safe mushrooms like button).

Thyme – A natural antimicrobial herb that helps keep the respiratory system clear and supports digestion.

Chickpeas – High in protein and fibre, they aid digestion and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Brown Rice & Quinoa – Gentle grains that are kind on the stomach, provide long-lasting energy, and are excellent sources of plant protein and minerals.

Turmeric & Black Pepper – The golden duo – Turmeric reduces inflammation and supports joint health, while black pepper helps your dog’s body absorb its active compound, curcumin – perfect turmeric for dogs synergy.

Tomato Purée – Adds richness and antioxidants like lycopene, supporting heart and cellular health (ensure it’s pure, with no added salt or sugar).

Manuka Honey – A natural healer – antibacterial, soothing, and immune-boosting.

Water – Keeps everything hydrated and helps create a nutrient-rich broth that supports kidney and skin health.

Method

Brown the Meat:
In a large pot, gently cook the minced beef and bacon over medium heat until lightly browned. Pour off any excess fat if needed.

Add the Veggies:
Stir in the garlic, carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, and thyme. Cook for about 5 minutes to release their aroma and soften slightly.

Add the Base:
Mix in the tomato purée, turmeric, black pepper, and manuka honey. Stir well to coat everything in those golden flavours.

Add the Grains & Water:
Add the chickpeas, brown rice, quinoa, and 1.5 litres of water. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with the Greens:
Once the chilli has thickened and the rice and quinoa are cooked, stir through the spinach just before serving. Let it wilt in the residual heat.

Cool Before Serving:
Allow the chilli to cool to a dog-safe temperature before serving your pup a portion.

Serving Tip

Serve your dog’s portion warm but not hot.

This dog-safe chilli freezes beautifully – just portion it into containers and defrost as needed.

Perfect for post-walk snuggles after a crisp autumn evening.

The Magic in the Bowl

This isn’t just dinner, it’s nourishment.

Every ingredient has been chosen to warm, ground, and balance your dog’s body – a true taste of holistic dog nutrition.

It’s comfort food that supports gut health for dogs, boosts immunity, and keeps those joints happy with natural anti-inflammatory goodness.

Perfect if you’re looking for a nourishing autumn dog food idea that lets you both share a meal by the fire.

Wellness doesn’t have to be complicated – sometimes it’s just a pot of chilli, shared with your best friend under a starry November sky.

If you give this recipe a go, I’d love to hear how you get on and as always, if you have any questions, please give me a shout lisa@thedogwitch.co.uk

See you on the next Blog

Lisa and Zak xxxx

Team – The Dog Witch