Description
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe features ground beef, beans, and a medley of spices to create the perfect comfort food for any occasion. A blend of chili powder, cumin, and fresh vegetables gives depth to the sauce, while kidney beans add texture and nutrition. Ideal for a cozy family meal, this chili is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with jalapeños for an added kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or your choice of ground meat)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, diced (optional, for heat)
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or pinto or black beans)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
Liquids
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or 1/2 cup beer and 1/2 cup broth for added flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño if using. Mince the garlic cloves. Rinse and drain the kidney beans to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Brown the Meat: In a large stovetop pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and jalapeño to the browned meat. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and broth (or beer and broth mixture). Add the rinsed kidney beans and stir everything together well.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for at least 30-45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as desired. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, include the jalapeño and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Using beer mixed with broth adds a depth of flavor, but water or broth alone are fine alternatives.
- Letting the chili sit for a few hours or overnight enhances the taste even more.
- Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
