Chili Recipe

A hearty and warming chili perfect for a cozy night in.

Chili is a popular American comfort food, often enjoyed during the colder months or at gatherings. It is known for its rich, robust flavors and the versatility of its ingredients, which can easily be customized to suit different tastes. Traditional chili typically includes ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices that give it its signature heat and depth of flavor. In this recipe, we'll guide you through a classic chili preparation that ensures a hearty, delicious meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender meat, creamy beans, and a perfectly balanced spice mix will make this recipe a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 calories per serving

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop the vegetables.
2. Cook Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Brown Meat: Add the ground beef and ground pork to the pot, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
5. Combine Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, corn, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
6. Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. Finish Seasoning: Stir in the sugar, chopped fresh cilantro, and lime juice. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with additional cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of chili! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore its consistency. Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Customize the spice level to your preference, and don't be afraid to experiment with different types of beans or meats. Happy cooking!