The Best Chili Recipe

There’s nothing like a hearty bowl of chili to warm you up on a cold day, satisfy a crowd, or serve as a perfect weeknight dinner. This chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the right balance of spices, vegetables, and lean ground beef to create a delicious dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or new to making it at home, this recipe is simple, customizable, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this the best chili recipe you’ll ever try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chili is a versatile dish that is perfect for many occasions. Here are a few reasons why this chili recipe will become your go-to:

• Perfect for a Crowd: This recipe makes a generous amount, making it ideal for parties, family gatherings, or meal prep.
• Easy Weeknight Meal: With minimal prep and a simmering time that allows you to multitask, it’s great for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños and chili powder.

Ingredients Overview

Understanding the ingredients and their roles in this chili recipe will help you make it to perfection.

• Lean Ground Beef (2 pounds): Provides a hearty base. Opt for 85% lean to avoid too much fat.
• Onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch.
• Jalapeno (1, seeded and finely diced): Introduces a bit of heat; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Enhances the overall flavor with a rich aroma.
• Chili Powder (2 ½ tablespoons, divided): The star spice; adjust based on your preferred heat level.
• Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthiness and depth to the flavor profile.
• Green Bell Pepper (1, seeded and diced): Provides a sweet, fresh crunch.
• Crushed Tomatoes (14 ½ ounces, canned): Forms the base of the sauce, adding a rich tomato flavor.
• Kidney Beans (19 ounces, canned, drained & rinsed): Adds texture and protein.
• Diced Tomatoes with Juice (14 ½ ounces): Gives the chili a chunky texture and fresh flavor.
• Beef Broth (1 ½ cups): Adds depth and richness to the chili base.
• Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon): Thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): Balances acidity from the tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Season and Brown the Beef

Begin by combining the ground beef with 1 ½ tablespoons of chili powder. This initial seasoning step infuses the beef with flavor from the start. In a large pot over medium heat, brown the seasoned ground beef along with diced onion, jalapeño, and minced garlic. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper starts to soften. This step enhances the flavor of the vegetables and incorporates them well into the chili base.

3. Simmer and Develop Flavor

Next, add the remaining ingredients: crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juice, beef broth, tomato paste, and optional brown sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The chili will thicken and the flavors will meld together beautifully during this time.

Pro Tips for the Best Chili

• Choosing the Right Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef that is around 85% lean. This provides enough fat for flavor without making the chili greasy.
• Adjusting the Spice: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the jalapeño. For extra heat, add an additional jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Adding Secret Ingredients for Depth: A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add umami, while a square of dark chocolate can enhance the chili’s depth and richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Meat: Be sure not to overcook the ground beef in the initial browning step. It should be just cooked through before adding other ingredients.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Simmering allows the flavors to meld together. Resist the temptation to rush this step.
• Using the Wrong Tomatoes: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Cheap tomatoes can be overly acidic or bland.

How to Serve Your Chili

Top your chili with cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro, or your favorite toppings. Serve it with warm cornbread, a side of rice, or a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors. Non-alcoholic beverages like lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water are excellent pairing options.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a hearty vegetarian option.
• White Chicken Chili: Swap the ground beef with shredded chicken breast and use white beans, such as cannellini, with green chilies for a lighter, milder version.
• Low-Carb Chili: Omit the beans and use extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cauliflower to reduce the carb content.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for even heat distribution.
• Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: For chopping the onions, jalapeño, garlic, and bell pepper.
• Ladle: For serving the chili.

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, transfer the chili to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to Make Chili Less Spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, use less chili powder and jalapeño. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice when serving can also help tone down the heat.

Can You Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This chili recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

What’s the Best Way to Thicken Chili?
If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a bit more tomato paste or mash some of the beans to release their starches.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate chili recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and customizable options, this chili is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is designed to be easy, delicious, and satisfying.

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