Are you craving a hearty, flavorful chili that's bursting with authentic Mexican spices? Look no further! This Proper Mexican Chili recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget bland chili – this recipe is all about vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple, proving that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated. Get ready to experience a chili so good, it'll become a new family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or 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 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro, tortilla chips
Instructions:
Step 1: 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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 richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. This is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Proper Mexican Chili hot, topped with your favorite fixings. A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, some fresh avocado slices, and a scattering of cilantro make excellent additions. Don't forget the tortilla chips for dipping! This quick dinner idea is sure to please everyone.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- For a deeper flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and chorizo.
- Spice it up: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or 2 cups of crumbled vegetarian crumbles.
- Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer it uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking time.
- Slow cooker option: Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- White Chicken Chili: Replace the ground beef with cooked chicken and use white beans instead of kidney and pinto beans. Reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper for a milder chili.
- Vegan Chili: Omit the beef completely and use vegetable broth instead. Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari for extra umami flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Proper Mexican Chili recipe is a testament to the deliciousness of simple, homemade cooking. It’s a flexible, adaptable recipe, perfect for experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique chili masterpiece. Enjoy!