Kickin Cowboy Chili a Hearty Homemade Classic
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave something warm and comforting on a chilly evening? This homemade chili recipe is your answer. This chili is packed with flavour and has a satisfying kick! Seriously, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
Brief Overview
Chili has roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, blending Southwestern and Mexican flavors. Our version? It’s an easy chili recipe, takes about an hour and a half, and feeds a family of six easily.
Main Benefits
One of the best comfort food recipes , Chili is a great source of protein and fiber. It's the perfect family dinner idea for a relaxed weekend.
Honestly, what makes this classic chili recipe special is how customisable it is!
Why This Chili is the Best Chili Recipe
Listen up! This isn't just any chili recipe. We're talking a hearty chili recipe that’s been tweaked and perfected. Think layers of flavour that develop as it simmers away.
This ground beef chili recipe is gonna make you rethink your current go-to. Trust me!
Ingredients: Get Ready to Rumble!
Right, let’s get our kit together. You will need ground beef, kidney and black beans, crushed tomatoes. We will also need the crucial spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to name a few! Don't forget olive oil, onions, peppers, garlic, beef broth.
Oh! Cider Vinegar, brown sugar, salt and pepper are a MUST for the correct flavour. Honestly, I get excited just thinking about it!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Chili Recipe
Alright, let's talk ingredients for my Kickin' Cowboy Chili! It's not complicated. Honestly, it's one of those comfort food recipes that's forgiving.
We're aiming for flavour, not perfection. I can almost smell it already.
Main Ingredients: Key to Homemade Chili Recipe Success
Here's what you'll need. Remember, this makes 6-8 servings :
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Just regular stuff is fine.
- Onion: 1 large , yellow, chopped. About 1 cup, give or take.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best, you know?
- Bell Peppers: 1 green and 1 red , chopped (approx. 1 cup each). Colour is your friend!
- Ground Beef : 1.5 lbs (about 680g). 80/20 is chef's kiss . Lean but not TOO lean. A bit of fat is flavor, right?
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons . This is the star of the show! I like a medium heat one.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon . Essential for that authentic chili vibe.
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon . Adds a smoky depth, trust me.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For that extra kick. Careful now!
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon . A little herby goodness.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (approx. 800g). Good quality tomatoes make a difference!
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (approx. 425g).
- Kidney Beans: 1 (15 ounce) can, drained and rinsed (approx. 425g).
- Black Beans: 1 (15 ounce) can, drained and rinsed (approx. 425g).
- Beef Broth: 1 cup (240 ml). Or water, if you're in a pinch.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon . Sounds weird, but it brightens everything up!
- Brown Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional). Just a touch to balance the acidity.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste!
Quality indicators? For the ground beef, look for a bright red color. The tomatoes should be a rich, deep red too. Honestly, it makes a difference.
Seasoning Notes: Elevating your Easy Chili Recipe
Chili powder and cumin are the backbone of this classic chili recipe . Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. And that touch of apple cider vinegar? Game changer!
If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do. For extra heat, add a pinch more cayenne. This hearty chili recipe is very adaptable.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple for this One-Pot Chili Recipe
You don't need fancy equipment for this ground beef chili recipe .
- Dutch Oven or Heavy Bottomed Pot: This is key. It helps distribute heat evenly.
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Don't have a Dutch oven? A large, heavy bottomed pot works just fine. The main thing is to avoid scorching. I once tried making chili in a thin saucepan… disaster!
This is the magic shopping list for the best chili recipe . It's a family dinner ideas that will hit the spot. Weeknight chili has never been easier.
Kickin' Cowboy Chili: Your Go-To Homemade Chili Recipe
Alright, let's talk chili! Seriously, is there anything more comforting? It's one of my absolute best chili recipe for family dinner ideas .
I love a big, hearty bowl. I'm going to spill all my secrets for the classic chili recipe that's a real crowd pleaser.
Plus, it’s totally customizable for picky eaters! It's really the perfect one-pot chili recipe .
Prep Like a Pro
First things first, you need your mise en place . Chop up your onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Seriously, having everything ready to go makes the whole process so much smoother.
I always get the kids to rinse the beans that way I can bribe them to help out, and it saves me time.
Also, be careful when you're chopping ! A sharp knife is a safe knife, as they say.
Let's Get Cooking!
Here's the super simple process for making my easy chili recipe :
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a big pot.
- Sauté the chopped onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and peppers, and cook for 3 minutes more.
- Brown 1.5 lbs of ground beef . Drain any extra grease. We want tasty chili, not an oil slick!
- Stir in your spices: 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you like heat!), and 1 teaspoon oregano. Cook for 1 minute . Blooming the spices unlocks SO much flavour.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low. Simmer for at least 1 hour , but 2 hours is better. Stir every now and then.
- Taste. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve.
Pro Tips for Chili Perfection
Honestly, there are a few tricks that seriously elevate this ground beef chili recipe . Browning the ground beef properly is key.
Don't rush it. Get some nice colour on there! If you love a thick chili, try crushing some of the kidney beans before adding them to the pot.
It adds a lovely, creamy texture. Watch out for adding too much cayenne pepper! A little goes a long way.
Leftover chili? Even better. The flavors meld together overnight. You can store chili in the fridge for up to 4 days . It's prime for meal prep!
So, there you have it! A simple, delicious hearty chili recipe that's perfect for a weeknight chili . Throw on some cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
This chili is the ultimate comfort food recipes . Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Your Kickin' Cowboy Chili
Right then, let's talk shop about this homemade chili recipe . It’s more than just chucking a load of stuff in a pot. You know? Let's nail the details!
Get Your Plating On
Presentation matters! Honestly, even this easy chili recipe looks amazing in a proper bowl. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheddar? Chef's kiss! For a rustic vibe, serve it in earthenware bowls.
If you are feeling fancy, make a chili cheese dog! Trust me, it's chef kiss .
Sides and Sips That Sing
What goes with ground beef chili recipe ? Cornbread is a must, obviously. Tortilla chips and guac are a win.
For drinks, a cold beer is always good. I reckon something light does the trick. Think Peroni or Blue Moon!
Storage Savvy
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
Refrigeration: Cool the chili completely before putting it in the fridge. It'll keep for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezing: This chili freezes like a dream! Portion it into freezer bags or containers. It's good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the hob, stirring often, until piping hot. Or, zap it in the microwave for a quick weeknight chili fix.
Chili Recipe Variations - Mix It Up
Fancy a change?
Veggie Vibes: Swap the beef for veggie mince or extra beans. Sweet potato adds a lovely touch. This option helps make a one-pot chili recipe .
White Chicken Chili: Use chicken instead of beef and white beans. Ditch the chili powder and add cumin and oregano. It's a whole different comfort food recipe .
Nutrition Nuggets
Okay, let's keep it simple. This hearty chili recipe is packed with protein and fibre. Beans are your friends! It's fairly nutritious, but portion control is key.
Check out the estimated values per serving: Calories 400-450, Protein 30-35g, Fat 20-25g, and Carbohydrates 30-35g. Note that these are just estimates and will vary based on specific brands and specific amounts used.
So there you have it! All you need to make the best chili recipe ! Don't be shy get in that kitchen and create something amazing.
I’m sure it will be a classic family dinner idea in no time. You can totally do this! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this homemade chili recipe spicier (without it being TOO much)?
Ah, the age-old quest for the perfect kick! Start by adding a pinch more cayenne pepper just a little at a time, tasting as you go. You can also use a hotter variety of chili powder, or throw in a finely chopped jalapeño or two when you're sautéing the onions and peppers.
Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Can I make this homemade chili recipe in a slow cooker or crock pot?
Absolutely! Slow cookers are brilliant for chili. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies as directed in steps 1-3 of the recipe in a skillet, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
You might need to add a little extra broth if it looks too thick during cooking. It’s a great way to have a hot meal waiting for you after a long day!
What's the best way to store leftover chili, and how long will it last?
Chili is brilliant for leftovers! Once cooled, store your chili in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
It tastes even better the next day like a fine wine, it just gets better with age!
I'm not a fan of kidney beans. Can I substitute them in this homemade chili recipe?
No worries, bean preferences are a personal thing! You can easily substitute kidney beans with pinto beans, black beans, or even cannellini beans. Each will give a slightly different flavour and texture to your chili.
You could even use a mix of different beans for added complexity it's your chili masterpiece, paint it how you like!
Is there a way to make this chili healthier?
Definitely! Opt for leaner ground beef (90/10) or even ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content. Load up on extra veggies like chopped zucchini, carrots, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrients and fiber. You can also reduce the amount of salt and use low-sodium broth.
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost!
Kickin Cowboy Chili A Hearty Homemade Classic
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 400-450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 30-35g |
