Chili. Just the word conjures up images of warmth, spice, and that comforting feeling of a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this classic dish is surprisingly easy to make and endlessly customizable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: You probably already have many of these ingredients on hand.
Flavorful: Packed with bold flavors of chili powder, cumin, and garlic.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, and more.
Versatile: Great for a weeknight dinner, game day, or potlucks.
Easy Homemade Chili
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 (1.25 ounce) packet chili seasoning
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer and Serve: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or longer for richer flavor. Stir occasionally. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat. You can also use a hotter variety of chili powder.
Make it Heartier: Add cooked ground turkey or sausage to the chili for extra protein.
Go Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils or beans for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian chili.
Slow Cooker Magic: This recipe is perfect for the slow cooker! Simply combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
Flavor Boosters: Add a touch of smoked paprika, chipotle in adobo sauce, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for deeper flavor complexity.
FAQs
Can I use canned chili beans instead of separate beans? Absolutely! Canned chili beans are a convenient shortcut.
How long will chili keep in the refrigerator? Leftover chili will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze chili? Yes! Let the chili cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Different Types of Chili
While this recipe provides a solid foundation, the world of chili is vast and diverse. Here are a few popular variations to explore:
Texas-Style Chili: This classic version emphasizes lean ground beef and a smoky flavor, often achieved with the addition of smoked paprika or chipotle peppers. It typically omits beans, focusing on the meaty flavor.
Cincinnati Chili: This unique style features a thin, slightly sweet sauce made with cinnamon, allspice, and cloves. It’s traditionally served over spaghetti with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of onions.
White Chili: This creamy and comforting variation features white beans, chicken or pork, and often includes ingredients like green chiles, corn, and cumin.
Vegetarian Chili: As mentioned earlier, vegetarian chili is a delicious and satisfying option. Explore different types of beans, lentils, and vegetables to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Conclusion
Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience. Whether you prefer a classic beef chili, a spicy vegetarian version, or something completely unique, this versatile dish offers endless possibilities. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the warm and flavorful magic of homemade chili.
