Craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that's packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Southern Homemade Chili recipe is your ticket to a delicious and satisfying dinner, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking, and it's one of the best recipes for those seeking quick dinner ideas. This recipe is a blend of classic Southern comfort food and healthy meals, making it a winner for everyone.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound 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 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Ground 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, corn, and beef broth. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), 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 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cilantro. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- For a thicker chili: Remove about a cup of the chili mixture before adding the beans and simmer it separately until reduced by half. Then, stir it back into the chili at the end.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of lentils or 2 cups of chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian chili. Be sure to add a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
- Slow cooker option: Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- White Chicken Chili: Substitute ground chicken for the beef and add a can of white beans instead of kidney and pinto beans. Add some diced green chilies for extra flavor.
- Beef and Bean Chili: Increase the amount of beans to your liking for a heartier, bean-rich chili.
- Spicy Chili: Add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 350-400 (depending on toppings and meat choice) Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This Southern Homemade Chili is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a true staple in any kitchen. Enjoy!