Grandma’s Homemade Chili

Warm up your kitchen with Grandma's homemade chili, a comforting family delight! This simple yet flavorful recipe brings together hearty ingredients like ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices to create a dish that warms both the heart and soul. Discover essential cooking tips, variations to customize your chili, and how to store and reheat leftovers.

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a healthier option)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium bell pepper, diced (red or green)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the spices with the meat and vegetables.

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld, stirring occasionally. For an even richer flavor, allow it to simmer for up to 1 hour.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45-60 minutes | Servings: 4-6

- Presentation Tips: Serve the chili in deep bowls topped with your choice of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh touch and serve with tortilla chips on the side for crunch.