Chili Recipe
Chili con carne, commonly known as chili, is believed to have originated in Texas. While its exact origins are debated, it is often associated with Tex-Mex cuisine. Historically, chili was a simple dish made with dried beef, suet, dried chili peppers, and salt—a convenient and nourishing meal for cowboys on the trail.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef or diced chuck roast
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:Chop the onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Measure out your spices to keep things organized.
- Cook the Meat:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or diced chuck roast and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:In the same pot, add the diced onions and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Combine Ingredients:Return the cooked meat to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well.
- Season the Chili:Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer:Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the Beans:Stir in the kidney beans and black beans. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Taste and Adjust:Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Serve:Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!