ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Spices and Tomatoes
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the spices bloom in the hot pot for about 1 minute. This releases their essential oils and deepens the flavor.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pot, mixing well. Pour in the beef broth to loosen up the mixture.
4. Simmer the Chili
- Return the browned beef to the pot, and stir in the beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will develop. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it cook longer; for a thinner consistency, add more broth.
5. Taste and Adjust
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you prefer a stronger flavor or more heat.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, and chopped green onions. For a little crunch, garnish with crushed tortilla chips.
Why This Chili Recipe is So Great
This chili recipe offers the perfect balance of hearty beef, rich beans, and bold spices. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a smoky, slightly spicy base, while the tomato paste and broth add depth and richness. The beans make the chili extra filling, while the toppings give it that finishing touch of creaminess and crunch.
This homemade chili is also incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding more vegetables (like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms), adjusting the level of spice, or even incorporating other meats like sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Chili
- Use High-Quality Beef: The quality of your ground beef makes a big difference in the final flavor. Opt for lean beef with a bit of fat for flavor, or try ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Let it Simmer: Chili tastes even better the next day! If you have time, let your chili simmer for an hour or longer to allow the flavors to develop fully.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder based on your preferred spice level. Add fresh jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Double the Recipe: Chili is perfect for leftovers and freezes well. Make a big batch, and you’ll have a meal ready to go for busy nights.
Conclusion
This recipe for the best homemade chili is comfort in a bowl—tender beef, savory beans, and a rich, flavorful broth that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this chili will satisfy your cravings and make you feel like a true kitchen pro. Add your favorite toppings, pair with cornbread, and enjoy a meal that’s as cozy as it is delicious!
ADVERTISEMENT
