Chili is a comfort food classic that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for cold nights, game days, or just a hearty meal, a well-made chili can bring friends and family together. This ultimate chili recipe combines rich, robust flavors with a perfect balance of spices, making it the best chili you’ll ever make at home. Follow this guide to create a bowl of chili that’s sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients for Ultimate Chili
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for garnish
How to Make Ultimate Chili
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Cook the Meat:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or mix of beef and pork) to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
- Season and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will develop.
- Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve hot with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Beef:
Ground beef is the foundation of this chili, providing a hearty and rich base. Opt for a mix of beef and pork if you want additional flavor and tenderness. Lean ground beef can be used to reduce the fat content without sacrificing taste.
Beans:
Beans add texture, fiber, and protein to the chili. Kidney beans and black beans are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with pinto or cannellini beans. Ensure they are drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium and starch.
Tomatoes:
Diced tomatoes and tomato paste give the chili its characteristic rich and slightly tangy flavor. The tomato paste helps thicken the chili, while the diced tomatoes add chunks of sweetness and acidity.
Spices:
The spice blend is what gives chili its distinctive flavor. Chili powder and cumin are the primary spices, providing warmth and depth. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while oregano and cayenne pepper bring additional complexity and heat. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
Worcestershire Sauce:
This sauce adds a unique umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chili. It’s a secret ingredient that elevates the depth of the dish without overpowering it.
Garnishes:
Shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions are classic chili toppings that add creaminess, freshness, and a bit of tang. They complement the robust flavors of the chili and create a satisfying contrast in texture.
Making the best chili at home is all about balancing flavors and letting the ingredients meld together over a slow simmer. This ultimate chili recipe captures the essence of traditional chili while allowing for personal touches and adjustments. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chili is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process, savor the aroma, and relish the delicious results!
