Why make this recipe

Chili is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or chilly days. The Best Ever Chili is thick, hearty, and bursting with savory flavors, making it a standout recipe that will keep everyone asking for seconds. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also offers a great opportunity to customize the spice level and toppings according to personal preferences. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or a newcomer, this chili promises to deliver on taste and satisfaction.

How to make The Best Ever Chili

Ingredients :

🥄 1 tbsp olive oil
🧅 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
🥩 1 lb lean ground beef
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🌶️ 1-2 tbsp chili powder (adjust for spice level)
🌿 1 tbsp ground cumin
🍯 1 tbsp brown sugar
🍃 1 tsp dried oregano
🧂 ½ tsp salt
⚫ ¼ tsp black pepper
🍅 3 tbsp tomato paste
🥣 1¾ cups low sodium beef broth (or one 14.5 oz can)
🔥 1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes
🫘 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, rinsed & drained
🖤 1 15 oz can pinto or black beans, rinsed & drained

Directions :

1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
2️⃣ Add ground beef and cook, crumbling, until browned (about 5 minutes). Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3️⃣ Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well.
4️⃣ Pour in broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5️⃣ Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes and beans.
6️⃣ Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cover for the first part of cooking, then uncover during the last 30 minutes to thicken.
7️⃣ Serve hot with cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, green onions, or cilantro. Enjoy! 😋

How to serve The Best Ever Chili

Serve this chili in warm bowls, and offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. This not only adds flavor but also allows everyone to customize their bowl to their liking. It’s an ideal dish for gatherings, paired well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad.

How to store

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth while reheating if it thickens too much.

Tips to make

For added depth of flavor, consider browning the beef a little longer until there’s a nice crust.
Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder or by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Include additional veggies such as bell peppers, corn, or celery for a more complex flavor and extra nutrition.
If you prefer a less meaty version, you can substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.

Variation

You can create a vegetarian or vegan version of this chili by substituting the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of beans or add in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots for a nutritious twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, canned beans are a convenient option. Just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the chili.

2. How do I make this chili spicier?
To make your chili spicier, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers. You can also incorporate hot sauce or cayenne pepper during cooking.

3. Can this chili be made in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare it a day ahead, store in the refrigerator, and simply reheat before serving.