Classic Chili Recipes

By Cindy Wechsler, APRN
November Chili Recipe

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 15oz. can kidney beans
  • 1 15oz. can black beans
  • 1 15oz. can diced tomatoes
  • 1 6oz. can tomato paste
  • 1 cup water

CHILI SEASONING

  • 1 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper

 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Add both to a large pot with the olive oil and cook over medium heat until they are soft and transparent. Add the ground beef and continue to sauté until the beef is fully browned.
  2. Drain the beans and add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, 1 cup water, and all of the ingredients for the chili seasoning. Stir until well combined. Place a lid on the pot and allow it to simmer over a low flame for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally (the flavor gets better the longer it simmers).
  3. Give the chili one final taste, adjust the salt or seasonings if needed, then serve hot with your favorite toppings.
  4. Serve over quinoa, riced cauliflower, brown rice, salad.

CUSTOMIZE THE SPICES:

  • Adding a couple chipotle chiles will give the chili a very spicy and smokey flavor
  • A little smoked paprika (1 tsp) will add smokiness without extra heat
  • Cocoa powder (1/2-1 Tbsp) makes the chili extra rich
  • Cinnamon (1 tsp) plays nicely with the chili peppers

ADD EXTRA VEGETABLES:

  • Make an extra veggie-licious chili by adding finely diced zucchini, bell pepper, chopped spinach or kale
  • Poblano peppers add a really great southwest flavor (sauté with the onions and garlic)
  • Jalapeños sautéed with the onions and garlic make for an extra spicy chili
  • Diced sweet potato or butternut squash adds a unique sweet contrast and beautiful color

USE FUN TOPPINGS:

  • Cheddar or Monterey jack cheese (can use dairy free cheese)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (can use dairy free)
  • Green onions
  • Cilantro
  • Crushed Tortilla Chip
  • Avocado
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