What is Classic Chili Recipe?
Classic Chili Recipe is a type of stew made from meat (typically beef), beans, and a blend of spices, including chili powder. It’s a classic American dish with its roots in the southwestern United States and a staple in households across the country. Chili is a hearty and filling dish that can be served on its own or used as a topping for other dishes, such as hot dogs or baked potatoes.
Chili is typically made on Sundays, and many families have their variations on the recipe. For example, some families cook the meat in a crockpot for several hours before adding it to the beans and spices. Others cook the meat in a skillet and then combine it with the beans and spices in a large pot to simmer.
You can also make chili from scratch by combining ground beef, browned onion, and cannellini beans with a few seasonings of your choice. Then add some other vegetables (like tomatoes or carrots) depending on what you have on hand and what you like. The result is a hearty meal loaded with flavor but still simple to cook.
Classic Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can of kidney beans (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can of chili beans (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot and cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
- If desired, serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream.
Tips & Tricks for Classic Chili Recipe
If you prefer a thicker chili, add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
For a spicier chili, add more chili powder or include a diced jalapeño pepper with the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or use canned chili with beans instead of making your own from scratch.
For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef and opt for low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes.
Nutrition Information of Classic Chilli Recipe
A one-cup serving of classic chili provides approximately 240 calories, 12 grams of fat, 20 grams of carbohydrates, and 16 grams of protein. It’s a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamins A and C. This recipe makes approximately 8 servings, so it’s easy to double or triple the recipe accordingly if you’re serving a larger crowd.
Classic chili is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with various sides. Try serving it with simple recipes such as cornbread, french fries, baked potatoes with sour cream and chives, or even a nice green salad. When entertaining guests, try serving traditional chili and other fun appetizer ideas such as hot dogs and mini burgers. These are easy recipes the whole family will enjoy, and they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Conclusion
Classic chili is a staple in households across the country, and it’s easy to see why. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, thick or brothy, classic chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of year. So if you’re looking for a warm and hearty meal that’s easy to make, be sure to give classic chili a try. It’s sure to become a staple in your household, too.
