Are you ready to experience a chili so unbelievably delicious, it'll make you the king (or queen!) of your own chili cook-off? This George Chili King recipe is a family favorite, a crowd-pleaser, and guaranteed to become one of your go-to easy recipes for those chilly evenings or game-day gatherings. It's a hearty, healthy meal that's surprisingly quick to make – perfect for busy weeknights when you're craving a delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea. Get ready to unleash your inner culinary champion!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous batch, perfect for sharing (or leftovers!). Feel free to adjust quantities to fit your needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or a blend of beef and turkey for a leaner option)
- 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 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth (or water)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Building the Flavor:
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds a crucial layer of flavor to your chili.
Browning the Meat:
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. For even better flavor, try browning the meat in batches to ensure a good sear.
Simmering to Perfection:
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
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Add the beef broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili fixings, like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro.
Cooking Tips for Chili Perfection:
- For a thicker chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add some sweetness: A tablespoon or two of brown sugar or molasses can balance the spices and add a touch of sweetness.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 (15-ounce) can of vegetarian chili beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian chili.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on toppings and meat choice) Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This George Chili King recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a delicious dish that's easy to customize to your taste preferences, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!