Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of chili that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Hormel Chili elevates the classic canned chili experience to a whole new level of homemade goodness. It's perfect for a chilly evening, a game-day gathering, or a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. This easy recipe uses Hormel chili as a base, adding depth and complexity with fresh ingredients. Get ready to experience chili like you've never tasted it before!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can Hormel Chili (any variety you prefer – Original, No Beans, etc.)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for a heartier chili)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
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 pepper and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender. This simple step adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that elevates the canned chili base.
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Combine ingredients: Add the Hormel chili, diced tomatoes, kidney beans (and pinto beans, if using), chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer to perfection: Pour in the beef broth or water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings.
Tips for the Best Hormel Chili:
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Don't be afraid to experiment with spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences. A dash of smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor.
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Brown the ground beef (optional): For a meatier chili, brown 1 pound of ground beef before adding the vegetables. Drain off any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe. This adds a significant boost of protein to your meal.
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Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky sweetness that complements the chili perfectly.
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Make it a slow cooker meal: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for an effortless, hands-off cooking experience.
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Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Variations:
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Vegetarian Chili: Omit the optional ground beef and add a can of corn or black beans for a hearty vegetarian chili.
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Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
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White Chili: Replace the Hormel chili with chicken broth and use white beans instead of kidney and pinto beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-400 (depending on ingredients and toppings)
- Protein: Around 15-20 grams
- Fiber: Around 10-15 grams
This recipe for Hormel Chili is a fantastic example of how a simple, easy recipe can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal. It's a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal option, and a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy!