Are you ready to experience a chili so rich and deeply flavorful, it'll redefine your expectations? Forget everything you think you know about needing tomato paste for a hearty chili. This recipe delivers a robust, smoky chili brimming with beans, spices, and a surprising depth of flavor – all without a single spoonful of tomato paste! It's a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking, ideal for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a flavorful twist on a classic. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, for a leaner option)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 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
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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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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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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Bloom the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromas – this is key for maximizing flavor in your chili!
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Simmer the Chili: Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This chili is fantastic served with cornbread, crusty bread, or your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the chili to simmer gently for a longer period develops a more complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Use quality ingredients: Using fresh herbs and spices will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your chili.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different beans, vegetables, or meats to create your own unique chili recipe.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of crumbled vegetarian protein, such as crumbled tempeh or mushrooms. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the other vegetables for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Remember that nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy this flavorful and easy-to-make chili recipe! It's a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal rotation, perfect for satisfying those chilly evenings or as a meal prep option for busy weeks. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your chili experience!