Introduction to Beef Chili
Beef chili is a hearty, warming dish that has deep roots in American cuisine. Whether it’s the chilly months of winter or you’re simply looking for comfort food, a bowl of beef chili provides warmth, rich flavors, and a delightful combination of spices and ingredients. Here are five delicious beef chili recipes you can try tonight to warm up your home and heart.
Classic Beef Chili Recipe
The classic beef chili is a timeless recipe that balances simplicity with depth of flavor. Here’s how you can make it:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Brown the beef in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- Add onions, cooking until translucent.
- Stir in beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve this classic chili with your choice of toppings like cheese, sour cream, or green onions to enhance the experience.
🍽 Note: For a richer flavor, let the chili sit overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
Texas-Style Chili
Texas chili, known for its bold flavors and lack of beans, is a beef lover's delight. Here’s what you'll need:
- 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 can of beer
- 1 can of crushed tomatoes
- Salt to taste
Steps:
- In a Dutch oven, heat oil and sear beef cubes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add spices, cook briefly, then return beef to the pot.
- Pour in beer and tomatoes, reduce heat, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours or until beef is tender.
Serve this rich, thick chili with cornbread to soak up all the robust flavors.
Spicy Green Chili
If you enjoy a bit of heat with your chili, this recipe will be right up your alley:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 green bell peppers, chopped
- 2 jalapeños, seeds removed and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 cans of green chilies
- Chicken broth or water as needed
- Salt to taste
Steps:
- Cook ground beef until browned, drain fat.
- Add onions, peppers, jalapeños, and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Incorporate spices, green chilies, and enough liquid to keep the chili from burning. Simmer for 40-50 minutes.
Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro or a dollop of guacamole for an extra touch.
🌶 Note: Adjust the amount of jalapeños according to your heat preference.
White Bean and Beef Chili
This recipe provides a lighter twist to traditional chili:
- 1 pound ground beef or beef stew meat
- 2 cans of white beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can of green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Chicken or beef broth as needed
- Salt and pepper
Steps:
- Brown beef in a pot, remove excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic, cook until translucent.
- Stir in beans, chilies, and spices. Add enough broth to cover the ingredients and cook on low heat for about an hour.
This chili pairs well with a fresh salsa or a side of warm naan.
Smoky Beef Chili
For a chili with a smoky depth, try this recipe:
- 1.5 pounds beef (stew meat or ground)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chipotle powder or to taste
- 1 can tomatoes, fire-roasted
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- Brown the beef in a pot, drain fat.
- Add onions and garlic, cook until softened.
- Mix in paprika, chipotle, tomatoes, beans, and broth. Let simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Garnish with a touch of sour cream or a splash of fresh lime juice to cut through the smokiness.
To end, beef chili is not just a meal; it’s a versatile dish that invites experimentation. Whether you’re a fan of the fiery heat of Texas chili or the subtle flavors of a white bean chili, these recipes offer something for every palate. Each variation provides a unique taste profile, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings, game nights, or just a cozy night in. Remember, chili is often better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop, so don’t hesitate to prepare it in advance.
Can I make chili in a slow cooker?
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Absolutely! Just brown the beef first for better flavor, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How long will chili last in the fridge?
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Properly stored, chili can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it cools down to room temperature before refrigerating.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
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You can dilute the heat by adding more broth or tomatoes, or reduce the spiciness by adding a dairy product like sour cream or cheese which helps to neutralize capsaicin.
Related Terms:
- recipe beef ch
- Slow cooker pot roast
- Pot roast
- Lomo asado
- Mississippi Pot Roast
- Beef Bourguignon
