Nothing beats the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of chili, whether you’re cozying up on a cold night or hosting a game-day gathering. This hearty dish combines bold spices, tender meat, and a medley of beans and vegetables to create a satisfying meal that’s as easy to customize as it is delicious. Let’s dive into a simple yet irresistible chili recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (adjust for desired thickness)
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Toppings:
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
- Tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything in the spices, letting the flavors bloom for about 1-2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir in the beans and any optional add-ins like corn or cocoa powder. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too acidic, add a pinch of sugar. For more spice, sprinkle in extra cayenne pepper.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips. Serve with a side of cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips for Perfect Chili
- Let It Rest: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- Experiment with Protein: Try swapping ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your heat preference.
- Texture Control: Blend half the beans with a bit of broth for a thicker chili.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the meat and add more beans, lentils, or quinoa for a protein boost.
- White Chicken Chili: Replace red sauce with green salsa, use shredded chicken, and add white beans.
- Sweet Potato Chili: Add diced sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This chili recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying. Whether you’re a purist who loves the classic version or an adventurous cook who likes to experiment with flavors, this dish is sure to warm your heart and your belly. Try it tonight and discover your new favorite comfort food!