The Best Homemade Chili Recipe
This is literally the best chili recipe ever and the perfect comfort food for chilly nights! Packed with protein thanks to red kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, lean ground beef, beef broth, and bacon. We love to top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cilantro, and avocado.
Instructions
- 1
In a large Dutch oven over medium high heat, fry the bacon until crispy, stirring it frequently. Drain on a paper towel lined plate, then set aside until needed.
- 2
Leave the bacon grease in the pan. Add the yellow onion, bell peppers, jalapeño peppers, and carrots and sauté until soft and almost caramelized, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- 3
Add the ground beef and brown, stirring gently, trying not to break up the beef too much (larger chunks are our goal). Cook until the meat is deeply browned and cooked through, about to 10 minutes.
- 4
Add the brown sugar, salt, pepper, and all spices and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- 5
Add the tomato paste and stir well to break it up into the meat. Cook for about 2 minutes, then add in the crushed tomatoes. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- 6
Stir in the cooked bacon, beans, and broth (and beer, if using) and mix well to combine. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. If the chili appears to be getting too thick, add a little more broth as needed.
- 7
Scoop into bowls and serve with garnishes (see post for garnish ideas).
Ago's Notes
- Adjust salt to taste based on your canned goods.
Let the flavors harmonize as they should, each ingredient honored for its role in this comforting symphony-trust the process, and let your table be the beneficiary of your care.
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