Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This fresh tomato chili recipe is your answer. It's bursting with the bright, vibrant taste of fresh tomatoes, a subtle kick of chili, and a comforting warmth that's perfect for a cozy night in or a casual weeknight dinner. This recipe is a delicious example of homemade cooking at its finest, a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and unbelievably satisfying. Get ready to experience a new level of chili deliciousness!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Fresh Flavors
This recipe is designed to showcase the natural sweetness and tang of fresh tomatoes. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped (Roma or heirloom are great choices)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's get cooking!
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the flavor base: Add the chopped fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
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Simmer to perfection: Add the kidney beans, black beans, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the 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 will become.
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Season and serve: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like cornbread or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for Chili Perfection
- For a smoother chili, use an immersion blender to partially puree the chili before adding the beans.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or carrots.
- If you like a thicker chili, simmer it uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- For a deeper, smoky flavor, consider using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of cayenne pepper.
Variations: Customize Your Chili Experience
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead.
- Spicy Chili: Add more jalapeño or cayenne pepper, or use a spicier chili powder.
- Beef Chili: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pot along with the onions. Brown the beef before adding the other ingredients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 10-15 grams
This fresh tomato chili is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of food recipes. It's a perfect example of how easy it can be to create delicious dishes using simple, fresh ingredients. Enjoy!