Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this big pot of chili recipe! This delicious and satisfying dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthy and delicious option for the whole family. Get ready to dive into a big bowl of this flavorful chili – you won't be disappointed!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily feeds a crowd, so feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, avocado
Instructions:
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Let's get cooking!
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
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Don't be afraid to experiment with spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika adds a lovely depth of flavor.
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For a thicker chili: Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot while it simmers. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water towards the end of the cooking time.
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Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
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Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
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White Chili: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth and omit the chili powder and cayenne pepper. Add a can of white beans and some diced green chilies for a lighter, brighter chili.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on toppings and meat choice)
- Protein: Around 25-30 grams
- Fiber: Around 15-20 grams
This big pot of chili is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are quick to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece!