Description
A hearty and comforting chili that balances bright acidity, deep umami, and gentle heat, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or equal amount chopped mushrooms for vegetarian)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained slightly
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, plus lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare your mise en place: chop the vegetables, open the cans, and measure the spices.
- Heat a sturdy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add oil, followed by the onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft and slightly caramelized, about 6–8 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground meat. Brown it, seasoning with salt and pepper until no pink is left.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Then stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa or cinnamon.
- Pour in crushed and diced tomatoes, beans, and broth. Also add brown sugar.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook gently for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Finish with chopped cilantro and an optional pat of butter. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
For a richer flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of beer or red wine before adding tomatoes. For smoother texture, mash some beans against the pot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: chili, stovetop chili, comfort food, weeknight dinner, easy recipe
