Chili
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for cold nights or gatherings.
This chili recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. It's packed with flavor and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Why You'll Love This Chili
- Rich and hearty flavors that warm you up
- Easily customizable to suit your taste
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
What Makes This Chili Special
This chili recipe stands out for its rich and hearty flavors, making it a favorite for gatherings and cold nights. The combination of ground beef, beans, and spices creates a satisfying dish that's both filling and flavorful. Each ingredient plays a vital role, enhancing the overall taste and texture. Whether you're a chili novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, allowing room for personal touches.
One of the best aspects of this chili is its versatility. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more chili powder or incorporating diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Alternatively, for a milder version, feel free to reduce the spices or omit them altogether. This adaptability makes it a great choice for family gatherings where everyone has different taste preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Chili is an excellent dish for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days and can be frozen for longer storage. Preparing a large batch means you can enjoy this comforting dish multiple times throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking. Just reheat and enjoy, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Additionally, chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. This makes it an ideal candidate for preparing ahead of time for busy weeks or even for game day gatherings. Simply prepare it in advance, and let it simmer on the stove or in a slow cooker to enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving chili, the options are endless! You can serve it alone in a bowl or pair it with cornbread for a classic combination. Toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions can elevate the dish, adding creaminess and crunch. Fresh cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile, bringing a touch of brightness to each bite.
For a fun twist, consider making chili dogs by serving the chili over grilled hot dogs. You could also use it as a filling for burritos or tacos. The versatility of chili not only makes it a meal on its own but also allows it to be a delicious component in various dishes.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
For Toppings (optional)
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Mix and prepare the ingredients as needed for a delicious chili experience!
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Meat
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and beef broth. Stir well.
Simmer the Chili
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Enjoy your homemade chili!
Tips for the Best Chili
To ensure your chili has depth of flavor, consider sautéing the spices with the onions and garlic before adding the liquids. This step helps to release the essential oils in the spices, intensifying their flavors. Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with different types of beans or even adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
Letting your chili simmer longer can also enhance the flavors. If you have the time, allow it to cook for an hour or more on low heat, which allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Storage and Reheating
To store leftover chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, divide it into portions and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
When reheating, you might want to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the chili if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer. This will help restore its consistency and ensure it’s just as delicious as when it was first made.
Chili Variations
While this recipe features classic beef chili, you can easily adapt it for different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. There are also delicious turkey or chicken chili options that provide a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
If you're feeling adventurous, try adding unique ingredients such as cocoa powder or dark beer, which can add complexity to the flavor profile. Don't hesitate to experiment with different types of beans or even add some corn for sweetness and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative.
→ How can I make my chili spicier?
Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
→ Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro are great choices.
Chili
A hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for cold nights or gatherings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chili
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
For Toppings (optional)
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
How-To Steps
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and beef broth. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g