Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful chili that's bursting with fresh tomato goodness? Forget those canned chili recipes! This homemade chili recipe uses fresh, ripe tomatoes for a taste that's simply unforgettable. It's the perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is for you. Let's dive in!
Ingredients: A Fresh Take on a Classic
This recipe makes about 6 servings of delicious, healthy chili.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 pounds fresh tomatoes, chopped (Roma or heirloom tomatoes work best)
- 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can of pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions: Simple Homemade Cooking
This easy recipe guides you through every step, making delicious chili achievable for everyone.
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Sauté the aromatics: 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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Add the tomatoes and beans: Add the chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer the chili: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. 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 an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the chili has simmered to your desired consistency, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili fixings.
Cooking Tips for Chili Perfection
- Fresh is best: Using fresh tomatoes elevates the flavor of this chili significantly. If you can't find fresh tomatoes, you can substitute with high-quality canned diced tomatoes.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. For a milder chili, omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other beans, vegetables, or spices to create your own unique chili recipe. Ground beef or turkey can easily be added for a heartier chili.
Variations: Explore the Endless Possibilities
- Vegetarian Chili: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by ensuring your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Beef Chili: Brown 1 pound of ground beef before adding the vegetables. Drain off any excess grease before proceeding with the recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
This delicious and healthy chili recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Enjoy!