Beef chili recipe

Beef chili is a staple of American cuisine, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and hearty meals. This classic recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors, tender textures, and a perfect balance of spice. The combination of ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, and a medley of spices creates a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. The addition of beans and tomatoes adds bulk and depth, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a game-day gathering, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef (85-90% lean)
• 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 30 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 28 oz can tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and Fritos for toppings

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil: In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
2. Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables have softened, about 7 minutes.
3. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for another minute.
4. Mix in garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Cook the beef: Add the ground beef and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
6. Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato puree, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt.
7. Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat so it maintains a slow simmer. Cover and cook for 45 minutes.
8. Uncover and cook: Remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 45 minutes.
9. Season to taste: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Top Tips:

1. Use lean ground beef: To avoid a greasy chili, use ground beef that is 85-90% lean.
2. Don’t overcook: The chili should be thick and tender, not soupy. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more tomato puree or beef broth.
3. Skim excess fat: If you notice excess fat on the surface, skim it off before serving.
4. Customize toppings: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or Fritos to make it more flavorful and fun.
5. Simmer slowly: The slow simmer helps to meld all the flavors together, making the chili richer and more complex.
6. Adjust spice level: If you prefer a less-spicy chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Variations:

1. Add a sweet twist: Add a tablespoon of honey to balance out the heat and add a touch of sweetness.
2. Use different beans: Experiment with different types of beans like black beans, pinto beans, or even white beans for a unique flavor.
3. Spicy kick: Add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
4. Smoky flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky, BBQ-inspired flavor.
5. Mexican twist: Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra spicy and Mexican-inspired flavor.
6. Thicker consistency: Add a tablespoon of cornmeal to thicken the chili further.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively high in protein and fat due to the ground beef and beans. However, it is relatively low in carbohydrates and sodium compared to other chili recipes. The addition of vegetables like onions and bell peppers adds fiber and vitamins, making it a nutritious and balanced meal. If you are watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium beans and tomatoes. For a lower-fat version, use leaner ground beef or reduce the amount of oil used in cooking.