Description
The Ultimate Guide to Mouthwatering Beef Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted optional)
- 1 can (15 ounce) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add the Veggies: Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
3. Season the Chili: Mix in the chili powder and cumin, stirring to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
4. Pour in the Liquids: Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the chili has thickened.
6. Finish with Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and let the chili simmer for another 10 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot Beef Chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced green onions.
Notes
Choose the Right Ground Beef: Opt for an 80% lean ground beef blend for the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Leaner cuts can result in a dry, crumbly chili.
Season with Care: The key spices – chili powder and cumin – are essential for achieving that signature chili flavor. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
Simmer for Depth of Flavor: Letting the chili simmer for 25-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a rich, complex dish.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, start with a smaller amount of chili powder and gradually increase it to your desired level of heat. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Thicken It Up: If your chili is a bit too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes or by mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cup
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg