Classic Beef Chili
Indulge in the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of Classic Beef Chili, where rich flavors meld together in each hearty spoonful. This timeless dish enchants with its spicy aroma and satisfying texture, making it an ideal comfort food for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large bell pepper, diced (any color)
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
Spices
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Other Ingredients
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 15-ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes or until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Season it with a bit of salt and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper or chili powder at this stage.
- Once the chili is thickened and flavors are well developed, ladle it into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.
Notes
Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Letting the chili cool and sit enhances its flavors. If time permits, let it simmer for an hour or more on low heat. Consider adding fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.