This homemade chili is the perfect cozy dish! Packed with hearty beans, flavorful spices, and a touch of heat, it’s sure to make everyone feel warm and happy.
Cooking chili always brings back memories of family dinners. I love serving it with cornbread or over rice. It’s easy to whip up, and leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try black beans or lentils as a hearty substitute.
Beans: Kidney beans add great texture, but feel free to mix it up with black beans or pinto beans. Canned beans save time, but if you’re up for it, dried beans work too—just soak and cook them first.
Chili Powder: This spice blend is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, use paprika mixed with cumin or even taco seasoning. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smokiness. If you can’t find it, regular paprika or a little liquid smoke can work in a pinch. I always keep smoked paprika on hand for more depth in dishes!
What’s the Best Way to Simmer Chili for Full Flavor?
Simmering is crucial to melding all the flavors together. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After adding all the ingredients, bring the chili to a gentle boil. Then immediately reduce the heat.
- Let it simmer uncovered for at least 30-40 minutes. This allows the chili to thicken and flavors to intensify.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and taste periodically to adjust the seasoning.
Don’t rush this step! The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will blend—my ideal chili simmers for an hour! Try it, and you might notice the difference.
Homemade Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chili Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
- Tortilla chips or crackers (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they become translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Add in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it from the pot.
3. Add Spices:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will help to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, drained kidney beans, and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors together.
5. Simmer:
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it gently simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen! This allows the chili to thicken and let all the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired. Feel free to make it as spicy as you like!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, hearty chili in bowls, and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and cilantro if you wish. Don’t forget the lime wedges for a fresh squeeze right before eating, and enjoy with tortilla chips or crackers on the side!
Enjoy your cozy, hearty bowl of homemade chili!
Can I Use a Different Meat for This Chili?
Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats. For a vegetarian version, try lentils or a mix of beans for a hearty texture!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like heat, you can add more cayenne pepper to taste or include jalapeños while cooking. You could also top the chili with hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, homemade chili is perfect for making ahead of time! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool before storing and reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy.
What Should I Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a filling meal. You can also serve sides like a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced dinner.
