Classic Beef Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Optional Garnishes:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Brown the Beef:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Cook Onions and Garlic:

• Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Combine Ingredients:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

1. Simmer:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor. Stir occasionally. If the chili gets too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste and Adjust:

• Taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve Hot:

• Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños.

Tips:

• Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like corn or zucchini if you like.
• Make It Spicy: Adjust the level of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Freeze for Later: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing portions for future meals.

This Classic Beef Chili is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers!