Are you craving a hearty, flavorful chili that’s surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Brooks Chili Mix recipe is a delicious and customizable option perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. Forget those bland, store-bought mixes – this homemade version offers a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy, a true champion among quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough chili mix for approximately 6 servings. Feel free to double or triple it to feed a crowd!
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 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 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, for a leaner option)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili.
Step 2: 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. This step adds richness and heartiness to your chili.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Brooks Chili Mix hot, topped with your favorite chili fixings. Sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped onions, and avocado are all excellent choices. This is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest!
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer your chili simmers, the more intense the flavors will become.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your chili will be directly affected by the quality of your ingredients.
- Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian chili.
- White Chili: Use white beans (like cannellini or great northern) instead of kidney and pinto beans. Omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.
- Beef and Bean Chili: Add a variety of beans for extra texture and flavor!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This Brooks Chili Mix recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!