Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a massive pot of chili simmering on the stove. Perfect for family gatherings, game days, or meal prep for the week ahead, this hearty chili recipe is loaded with flavor and can easily feed a crowd. Rich with spices, tender meat, and a medley of beans and vegetables, this chili is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your taste!
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- Beans:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- Vegetables:
- 2 large onions, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Liquid:
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water (if needed for consistency)
- Toppings (optional):
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
- Avocado slices
Instructions:
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, corn, and beans to the pot. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together. If the chili becomes too thick, add water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more spices or salt to suit your preference.
- Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of toppings. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.