Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Classic Beef Chili Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 cups beef broth (or water)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add Seasonings: Mix in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 1-2 hours. Add more broth or water if it becomes too thick.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings.

Importance of Each Ingredient

• Olive Oil: Provides a healthy fat for sautéing vegetables and browning the beef, enhancing flavor.
• Ground Beef: The main protein source; a rich flavor base that gives the chili its hearty character.
• Onion & Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and savory flavor to the chili.
• Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and texture, complementing the other flavors in the dish.
• Kidney Beans: Provide protein and fiber, making the chili more filling and nutritious.
• Diced Tomatoes: Contribute acidity and moisture, creating a rich sauce that balances the flavors.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the chili.
• Chili Powder: The primary spice that gives chili its signature flavor and warmth.
• Ground Cumin: Adds earthiness and depth, enhancing the overall taste of the chili.
• Smoked Paprika (optional): Introduces a smoky flavor that adds complexity.
• Oregano: Provides herbal notes that brighten the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Beef Broth (or water): Adds moisture and helps create the desired consistency of the chili.

Feel free to customize your chili with different beans, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste! Enjoy your hearty and comforting beef chili!