Chili
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and warming dish perfect for cold days and gatherings.
This chili recipe is a family favorite that brings everyone together.
Why You'll Love This Chili
- Rich and flavorful spices that warm your soul
- Hearty beans and meat for a satisfying meal
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
A Comforting Classic
Chili is more than just a meal; it's a comforting classic that brings friends and family together. This dish has its roots in Tex-Mex cuisine and has evolved over the years, adapting to various tastes and preferences. Whether you enjoy a spicy kick or a milder flavor, chili is versatile enough to accommodate everyone's palate. It's the perfect dish to whip up for game day or a cozy family dinner.
The beauty of chili lies in its ability to meld flavors together as it simmers. The combination of spices, beans, and meat creates a robust profile that satisfies both hunger and craving. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, making it a dish that never goes out of style. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up pantry staples, making it both economical and delicious.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best features of this chili recipe is its suitability for meal prep. It stores beautifully in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking. Simply prepare a large batch and divide it into individual servings. You can easily reheat it for lunch or dinner, making it a convenient choice for busy schedules.
Additionally, chili freezes well, so you can tuck away portions for those days when cooking feels overwhelming. Just thaw and reheat, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready in minutes. This makes it a staple in many households, especially for those who prioritize healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Customization Options
Chili is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Want to make it vegetarian? Simply swap the ground meat for more beans or lentils. You can also add in various vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition. The spice level can also be adjusted to suit your taste; just add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños for a hot dish.
Don’t forget about toppings! A sprinkle of cheese, dollop of sour cream, or a handful of fresh cilantro can elevate your chili to the next level. Experimenting with different ingredients not only keeps the dish exciting but also caters to different dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients
Chili Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 8 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Cook the Chili
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Serving Suggestions
Chili can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with sides can take your meal to new heights. Serve it with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the chili. For a festive touch, consider topping it with diced onions, shredded cheese, and avocado for a burst of flavor and texture.
If you're hosting a gathering, set up a chili bar with various toppings, allowing guests to customize their bowls. This interactive element not only adds fun but also accommodates different tastes and dietary restrictions.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftover chili, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, make sure to warm it thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the chili has thickened, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For the best flavor, try to consume the chili within the first few days after cooking. However, its taste often improves after a day or two as the flavors continue to meld, making it a dish that can be enjoyed multiple times throughout the week.
Nutritional Benefits
Chili is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The beans provide a great source of protein and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied. Ground meat, whether beef or turkey, adds additional protein to the mix, making it a hearty meal choice. Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers increases the vitamin content, giving you a boost of essential nutrients.
Moreover, the spices used in chili, such as cumin and chili powder, come with their own health benefits. They can aid digestion and even provide anti-inflammatory properties. So, enjoying a bowl of chili means indulging in something that tastes great and contributes positively to your health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.
→ Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables for a delicious vegetarian chili.
Chili
A hearty and warming dish perfect for cold days and gatherings.
Created by: Olivia Martin
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chili Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 8 minutes.
Stir in kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g