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Homemade Chili

Homemade Chili

This Homemade Chili is a cozy, hearty, and flavorful meal bursting with rich spices, tender meats, and comforting beans. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a quick and easy dish that can be adjusted for any serving size and tastes even better as leftovers. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe delivers a satisfying blend of punch and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or preferred meat/plant-based alternative)

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables

  • 12 bell peppers, diced

Beans

  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed

Liquids

  • 1 can (14-15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth or stock

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or cayenne powder for heat
  • Additional beans, lentils, or chopped mushrooms for vegetarian version
  • Smoked paprika or liquid smoke for smoky flavor
  • Corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra vegetables

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

    Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant to build the flavorful base for your chili.

  2. Step 2: Brown the Meat

    Add ground beef or turkey to the pot with the onions and garlic. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon, browning it evenly to develop a rich savory crust.

  3. Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

    Stir in diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the ingredients with spices and allow the aromas to develop.

  4. Step 4: Incorporate Liquids and Beans

    Pour in canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add the drained beans and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 30-40 minutes to blend the flavors.

  5. Step 5: Adjust and Serve

    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired. Simmer uncovered for an extra 10 minutes if you prefer a thicker chili. Serve piping hot with your preferred garnishes and sides.

Notes

  • Brown meat thoroughly: Adds deep, rich flavor.
  • Use fresh spices: Ensures vibrant aroma and punchy taste.
  • Simmer low and slow: Helps meld flavors perfectly.
  • Let chili rest: Enhances flavor after cooking.
  • Customize toppings: Cheese, sour cream, green onions, and cilantro work great.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili, homemade chili, ground beef chili, turkey chili, easy chili recipe, hearty meal, comfort food, bean chili, slow cooker chili, vegetarian chili option