Description
A hearty and flavorful chili that balances savory depth with bright tomato tang, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds ground beef or a mix of beef and pork (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles)
- 2 cans (28 oz) whole tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups dried beans (soaked and cooked) or 2 cans canned beans
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 bell peppers, diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (ancho, chipotle, and cayenne)
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 small piece dark chocolate or 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup brewed coffee or beef stock
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (if needed)
- Optional: Mushrooms for added umami
Instructions
- In a heavy Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of neutral oil over medium-high heat and add diced onions with a pinch of salt. Sauté until translucent.
- Add diced bell peppers and minced garlic, cooking until soft, adding mushrooms if using.
- Push vegetables aside and add ground meat, browning thoroughly.
- Stir in tomato paste and toast for a minute to reduce raw taste.
- Add chili powders, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and pepper. Toast spices for 30-45 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze with coffee or beef stock, scraping up browned bits.
- Add canned tomatoes, beans, bay leaf, and stock, then bring to a simmer.
- Lower heat and simmer uncovered for at least an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, acidity, and sweetness as needed.
- Let rest for 20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Chili can be made in advance and tastes better the next day. Top with fresh herbs, diced onions, or shredded cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chili, comfort food, family recipe, potluck, hearty meal
