Are you planning a get-together and looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that everyone will love? Look no further! This chili recipe is perfect for feeding a large group, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's sure to impress your guests. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering. This recipe delivers big on taste and is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily scales up or down, depending on your group size. The quantities listed below are for approximately 12 servings.
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 red bell peppers, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 (28 ounce) cans 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
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a delicious base for your chili.
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Brown the beef: 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, paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or longer for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. This chili is fantastic on its own, but adding some extra flair with toppings makes it even better.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering process: The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors meld together, creating a richer and more complex taste.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For a spicier kick, add more.
- Use a good quality chili powder: The quality of your chili powder significantly impacts the overall flavor of the chili.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to your liking.
Delicious Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 1 cup of lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- White Chili: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth and add white beans instead of kidney, pinto, and black beans. You can also add corn and diced chicken or shredded chicken.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This chili recipe is a fantastic choice for a large group gathering. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!