Classic Beef Chili Recipe A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

Classic Beef Chili Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

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This Classic Beef Chili Recipe is a rich, meaty, and perfectly spiced dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Packed with tender beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and an aromatic blend of spices, this chili is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, game nights, or cold winter evenings. Whether you serve it with cornbread, rice, or just a sprinkle of cheese on top, this homemade chili is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds with its deep flavors and hearty texture.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Incorporate Tomato Ingredients: Add tomato paste and stir well to coat the beef and vegetables. Then, pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and sugar. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add the bay leaf.
  6. Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to develop and the chili to thicken.
  7. Add the Beans: Stir in the drained kidney beans and cook for an additional 15 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. Serve hot with cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.

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