Get ready to dive into the most comforting, soul-warming chili recipe that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen! 🔥 This isn't just any chili – this is "My Mom's Classic Chili," a time-honored recipe that has been perfected over generations and guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with pure, hearty deliciousness. Imagine a rich, slowly simmered blend of tender ground beef, robust spices, and perfectly cooked beans that will have your family begging for seconds (and thirds)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until it's browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and onions with the spices, allowing them to toast for about 1 minute to release their flavors.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and drained kidney beans. Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer slowly, stirring occasionally, for approximately 2 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the chili seems too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it's too thin, continue simmering uncovered to reduce.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls. Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Tips
- • Brown the meat thoroughly: Take your time when cooking ground beef to develop deep, rich flavors. Make sure it's nicely caramelized before adding other ingredients.• Toast your spices: When you add chili powder and cumin, let them cook for a minute to release their maximum flavor potential. This little step makes a huge difference!• Low and slow is the secret: The 2-hour simmer isn't just a suggestion – it's crucial for allowing flavors to meld and develop a truly incredible depth.• Don't rush the resting period: Those 10-15 minutes after cooking allow the chili to thicken and the flavors to settle, creating an even more delicious final dish.• Customize your toppings: While the recipe is amazing on its own, toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro can elevate your chili to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
