This hearty chili recipe is perfect for a cold day or a large gathering. Packed with flavor and a variety of beans, it’s a classic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef (or ground turkey) | 2 lbs |
| Onion, diced | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Kidney beans, drained and rinsed | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
| Black beans, drained and rinsed | 2 cans (15 oz each) |
| Crushed tomatoes | 2 cans (28 oz each) |
| Diced tomatoes with green chilies (or regular diced tomatoes) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Beef or chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Tomato paste | 1 can (6 oz) |
| Chili powder | 3 tablespoons |
| Cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional for heat) | ½ teaspoon |
| Sugar (optional, to balance acidity) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeños
- Tortilla chips or crackers
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, allowing spices to bloom and infuse their flavors.
- Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato paste, and broth. Stir well to combine. Add kidney beans and black beans, stirring until everything is evenly distributed.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
- Adjust Seasoning: After chili has simmered, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. For a thicker chili, let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes uncovered.
- Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or crackers.