This classic chili is a hearty and comforting dish packed with ground beef, beans, and warm spices. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends!
I love how it fills the kitchen with delicious smells! Plus, you can top it with cheese, sour cream, or green onions for extra yum. Who could say no to that? 😄
Making chili is super easy; just brown the meat, add the ingredients, and let it simmer. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect with some crusty bread on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! You can substitute it with ground turkey or even plant-based options like lentils or black beans for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Onion: A large onion adds flavor. If you’re short on onions, shallots or leeks are good substitutes. I sometimes use sweet onions for a milder taste!
Chili Powder: The main spice that gives chili its warmth. If you don’t have it, a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper can work, but chili powder gives that classic taste. Feel free to adjust based on your spice level!
Beans: Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans or pinto beans are also tasty alternatives. If beans aren’t your thing, you can omit them completely.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Simmering My Chili?
Simmering is essential for developing rich flavors in chili. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After adding the tomatoes and broth, bring everything to a boil first. This helps blend the flavors.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. This allows the chili to thicken and all ingredients to meld together.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. It’s a great time to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Add beans toward the end of simmering so they stay intact and don’t turn mushy.
Chili benefits from a little time, so don’t rush this step! Enjoy your cooking!
Classic Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic chili recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30-45 minutes to cook and simmer, allowing the flavors to deepen. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a delicious homemade chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and stir for another minute. You’ll want to cook it just until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and there’s no pink left, usually about 7-8 minutes. If there’s too much fat, feel free to drain some off.
4. Spice It Up:
Time to stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), and oregano. Cook this spicy mix for 1-2 minutes to help the flavors bloom.
5. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the beef broth (or water). Stir everything together so it’s well mixed.
6. Bring to a Boil:
Increase the heat to bring your chili to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps all those lovely flavors mingle!
7. Add the Beans:
After simmering, add the kidney beans. Continue to let the chili simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens up. Give it a taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooked, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot chili into bowls, and top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and a few chopped green onions for that extra flavor!
Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of classic chili! Perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just be mindful of cooking times as vegetarian ingredients may require less cooking time than traditional beef.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a hint of cocoa powder can also deepen the taste of your chili. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking!
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just thaw and reheat before serving!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, diced, will do. You may want to cook them a bit longer to break down into a sauce-like consistency. Add an extra splash of broth if it seems too thick!