Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. This easy chili recipe is packed with hearty flavors and can be made in under an hour. With simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious pot of chili that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Servings and Cooking Time
This easy chili recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 10g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add chili powder and cumin, stirring for 1 minute to release flavors.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian option. Swap kidney beans for pinto beans, and feel free to add corn for extra sweetness.
Serving and Pairings
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice. Add some avocado slices or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly can result in a bland flavor.
- Skipping the sautéing of vegetables can lead to less flavor.
- Overcooking can make the beans mushy.
- Not adjusting spices to personal taste may leave the dish flat.
- Using canned beans without rinsing can make the chili too salty.
Helpful Tips
- Let it simmer longer for deeper flavors.
- Top with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
- Experiment with different beans for variety.
- Use a slow cooker for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it method.
FAQs
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can make it a day in advance and simply reheat before serving.
Is this chili spicy?
The spiciness of the chili depends on the amount of chili powder used. You can adjust the chili powder to your preference or add fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I add vegetables to the chili?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced zucchini, carrots, or corn for extra nutrition and texture.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina to thicken it up.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili can be served with various sides like cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado also enhance the dish.
Conclusion
This easy chili recipe is not just quick to prepare; it’s also delicious and adaptable. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this hearty dish!
Easy Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese sour cream, green onions
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Add chili powder and cumin, stirring for 1 minute to release flavors.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.