The Best Chili Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Chili is a classic dish that warms the heart and soul. This recipe for The Best Chili is perfect for family gatherings, game-day parties, or simply a cozy night in. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a go-to meal for chili lovers everywhere. Plus, it’s highly customizable with toppings to suit everyone’s taste!

How to Make The Best Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 tbsp chili powder (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1¾ cups low sodium beef broth (or one 14.5 oz can)
• 1 28 oz can fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes
• 1 15 oz can red kidney beans, rinsed & drained
• 1 15 oz can pinto or black beans, rinsed & drained

Optional toppings:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Avocado slices
• Chopped red or green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Tortilla chips or cornbread

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
2. Add ground beef and cook, crumbling, until browned (about 5 minutes). Drain excess grease. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well.
4. Pour in broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes and beans.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. Cover for the first part of cooking, then uncover during the last 30 minutes to thicken.
7. Serve hot with cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, green onions, or cilantro. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Chili

Serve your chili hot in bowls, topped with your choice of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, chopped onions, fresh cilantro, or tortilla chips. Pair it with cornbread for a complete comfort meal that everyone will love!

How to Store The Best Chili

To store leftover chili, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freeze it in portions. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to Make The Best Chili

• Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference. Start with less and add more if you want it spicier.
• Let the chili simmer longer for more depth of flavor.
• You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of beans or even ground turkey for a leaner option.

Variation

For a vegetarian version of this chili, simply replace the ground beef with texturized vegetable protein (TVP) or additional beans. You can also use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can brown the meat and onions on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this chili is gluten-free as long as you ensure your broth and other canned ingredients do not contain gluten.

3. How spicy is this chili?
The spice level depends on how much chili powder you use. Start with 1 tablespoon for a mild chili and add more if you enjoy heat.

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