Tired of the same old leftover prime rib sandwiches? Elevate your leftovers into a hearty and delicious chili that's perfect for a cozy night in! This recipe transforms tender prime rib into a rich and savory chili, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. It's the perfect example of delicious dishes born from resourceful homemade cooking, proving that even the simplest ingredients can create a truly satisfying meal. This recipe is a quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, 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 cups leftover prime rib, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado
Instructions:
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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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Build the chili base: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add the prime rib: Stir in the shredded or diced leftover prime rib. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering process: Allowing the chili to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes develops a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your chili will be significantly enhanced by using good quality beef broth and spices.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
Variations:
- Add other beans: Experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or great northern beans.
- Include vegetables: Add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it up: Incorporate other spices like oregano, thyme, or chipotle powder for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
This easy recipe for chili with leftover prime rib is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal without wasting precious leftovers. It's a great example of transforming simple ingredients into something truly special, perfect for a satisfying and delicious healthy meal. Enjoy!