Get ready to warm up your kitchen with a hearty bowl of "Hilda's Mean Pot of Chili"! This classic American dish is not just any chili; it's a flavor-packed delight that promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a pot of chili that’s bursting with rich flavors and a hint of spice. Perfect for chilly evenings or game day gatherings, this recipe yields six generous servings that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Dive into this article to discover the secrets behind Hilda's legendary chili and elevate your cooking game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the browned beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burn.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the kidney beans, stirring to combine with the meat and onions.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: For the best flavor, opt for lean ground beef. If you prefer a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic! This process enhances their flavors and adds depth to your chili.
- Let It Simmer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. If you have time, consider letting it cook for up to 90 minutes for an even richer taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chili to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors to develop even further and makes for a more delicious dish.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance your serving with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs such as cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
- Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge to let the flavors deepen overnight.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
