Homemade Chilli Recipe

A delicious and customizable homemade chilli recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. This recipe allows for adjustments in spice level and ingredient preferences, making it your own perfect bowl of chilli.

Ingredients:

• Protein (choose one or a combination):
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 lb diced beef chuck (for a heartier chilli)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, rinsed and drained  
• Aromatics:
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• Tomatoes:
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste  
• Spices:
  • 2-3 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Broth (optional):
  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth) for a thinner consistency
• Toppings (optional):
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chopped cilantro or green onions
  • Avocado, diced
  • Tortilla chips or cornbread

Instructions:

1. Brown the protein: If using ground meat, brown it in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. If using diced beef, sear it in the pot until browned on all sides.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the tomatoes and beans: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, and beans (if using canned beans).
4. Add the spices: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the chilli to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavour. Stir occasionally. If the chilli becomes too thick, add a cup of beef or vegetable broth for a thinner consistency.
6. Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the chilli and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili powder for a stronger flavour, cayenne pepper for more heat, or salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the chilli into bowls and top with your favourite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado, and tortilla chips or cornbread.

Enjoy your homemade chilli!