Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that transports you straight to the heart of the Southwest? Then look no further! This Durango Diner Green Chili recipe is a delicious and easy-to-follow guide to creating a true taste of New Mexico in your own kitchen. Forget those bland, boring dinners; this recipe is bursting with authentic flavors and is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend feast. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy, proving homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 Anaheim chiles, seeded and chopped (or 2-3 poblano peppers for a milder chili)
- 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup chopped cilantro, 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, bell peppers, and Anaheim chiles and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until slightly tender. This step builds the base of delicious flavors in your green chili.
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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. This is a simple yet crucial step for creating a rich and flavorful chili.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), chicken broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture 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 more the flavors meld together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the green chili into bowls and garnish generously with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides – think cornbread, rice, or even some crusty bread for dipping!
Tips and Variations:
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Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Anaheim or poblano peppers to control the spiciness. For extra heat, add a few chopped jalapeños. This allows you to customize this delicious dish to your preference.
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Beans: For a heartier chili, add 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans or pinto beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds extra protein and texture to the chili.
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Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese on top adds a delightful creamy finish.
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Make it Ahead: This green chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This is perfect for meal prepping and saving time during the week.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
This Durango Diner Green Chili recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, delicious food. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the delicious taste of the Southwest in your own home!