Easy Chili Recipe: A Beginner's Guide to Flavorful Chili
This easy chili recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and chili lovers alike! It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is incredibly adaptable to your spice preferences. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet delicious chili.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on a weeknight.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables. You can substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that garlicky punch!
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional): Adds a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey): The base of our chili. You can also use a combination of beef and beans for a heartier chili.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides the tomato base for the chili.
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and protein.
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Another great source of protein and fiber.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained: Adds spice and flavor. Adjust to your spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: The foundation of chili flavor. You can use more or less depending on your preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano: A classic chili spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This easy chili recipe is simple to follow, even for novice cooks.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chili powder, cumin, oregano, 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 flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more chili powder for extra heat, or more salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious chili hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
Tips for the Best Chili:
- Spice it Up: For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add Some Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, corn, or zucchini.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian crumbles.
- Slow Cooker Option: This chili is also perfect for a slow cooker! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
This easy chili recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
