Simple Easy Chili Recipe: A Beginner's Guide to Flavorful Chili
This simple and easy chili recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. It's packed with flavor and requires minimal ingredients and effort. This recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference and dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it incredibly convenient.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and savory kick.
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or a vegetarian substitute): The base of your chili.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The foundation for the sauce.
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and protein.
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Another source of protein and fiber.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained: Adds spice and flavor.
- 1 tbsp chili powder: The star spice! Adjust to your taste.
- 1 tsp cumin: Earthy and warm, complements the chili powder beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp oregano: A touch of Mediterranean flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Meat: Add the ground beef (or your chosen protein) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- 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 an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more chili powder for extra heat, or more salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Top with your favorite chili toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or avocado.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, lentils, or your favorite vegetarian crumbles.
- Add more vegetables: Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini would be delicious additions.
- Slow cooker option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
This simple easy chili recipe is a versatile and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
