Classic Beef Chili Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to this classic beef chili recipe! Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends and family. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a delicious and satisfying beef chili that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
For this classic beef chili recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream
- Cilantro leaves
Steps
Now, let’s go through the steps to make this classic beef chili:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat and onions with the spices.
Step 4: Add the Crushed Tomatoes
Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the beef mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Beans
Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir well to incorporate them into the chili.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to customize your classic beef chili:
1. Add Some Heat
If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add some diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the pot.
2. Play with the Beans
Feel free to experiment with different types of beans in your chili. You can swap the kidney beans for pinto beans or add some chickpeas for extra texture.
3. Make it Vegetarian
If you want to make a vegetarian version of this classic chili, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans and vegetables, such as diced bell peppers and corn.
4. Serve with Cornbread
To complete your meal, serve the chili with a side of warm cornbread. The sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chili.
Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your classic beef chili turns out perfectly:
1. Let it Rest
After cooking, let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more and makes it even tastier.
2. Adjust the Seasonings
Taste the chili as it simmers and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. You can add more chili powder for extra heat or more cumin for a deeper flavor.
3. Make Ahead and Freeze
This classic beef chili recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
Conclusion
Now you have a fantastic recipe for classic beef chili that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this chili is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
