Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than Chili John's Chili Recipe! This isn't your average chili; it's a delicious, customizable dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. This easy recipe delivers big on taste, using simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs seeking a quick dinner idea. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for sharing (or leftovers!).
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lb 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 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions:
This healthy meal comes together quickly. Follow these simple steps:
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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 cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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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, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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 deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and chorizo sausage.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Add some sweetness: A tablespoon of brown sugar or molasses can add a touch of sweetness that balances the spices.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, 1 (15 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained), and 1 cup of vegetable broth.
- Thicken it up: If your chili is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. You can also stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This delicious and easy chili recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of Chili John's Chili! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #ChiliJohnsChili. We can't wait to see your photos!