Just the Way We Like It Chili
Description
After countless attempts at perfecting the ultimate chili recipe, we’ve finally arrived at this delightful blend of flavors that truly captures the essence of what chili should be. Rich, hearty, and wonderfully satisfying, this dish is sure to please your family and friends, making it a staple at your gatherings. With its warm spices, savory meats, and a hint of sweetness, this chili is just the way we like it.
Recipe Category
Meat
Keywords
Tex Mex, Southwestern U.S., Less than 4 hours
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | tablespoons olive oil |
| 2 | medium onions, chopped |
| 3 | cloves garlic, minced |
| 1 | pound lean ground beef |
| 3/4 | pound beef steak, cut into cubes |
| 1 | can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) |
| 12 | ounces dark beer |
| 1 | cup brewed coffee |
| 12 | ounces tomato paste |
| 2 | cups beef broth |
| 1/8 | cup brown sugar |
| 3 1/2 | tablespoons chili powder |
| 1 | teaspoon cumin seed |
| 1 | teaspoon dried oregano |
| 1 | teaspoon ground cayenne pepper |
| 1 | teaspoon ground coriander |
| 1 | teaspoon salt |
| 3 | cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained |
| 4 | chili peppers, chopped |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 471.6 |
| Total Fat | 18.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 65.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1451.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.7 g |
| Sugars | 15.1 g |
| Protein | 31.9 g |
Cooking Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 2 hours 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 2 hours 35 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed stew pot over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly but not smoke, indicating that it’s hot enough to sauté the vegetables and meat. -
Sauté the Aromatics and Meats
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, stirring them gently to coat with the oil. Sauté for about five minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Then, introduce the ground beef and beef steak pieces to the pot. Cook for an additional ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well browned and the onions are tender. -
Incorporate the Tomatoes and Liquids
Once the meat is browned, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, dark beer, brewed coffee, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully. -
Add the Spices and Sweetness
Sprinkle in the brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili mixture. -
Add the Beans and Peppers
Next, add two cans of rinsed and drained kidney beans and the chopped chili peppers to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate the beans without breaking them down. -
Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, allowing the chili to simmer uncovered for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This slow cooking time allows the steak pieces to become tender and the flavors to develop fully. If you wish, this step can be done in advance or even the previous day for enhanced flavor. -
Finish with Final Ingredients
Just before serving, stir in the remaining can of kidney beans to add a contrasting texture. Simmer the chili for an additional 30 minutes, ensuring that everything is heated through. -
Serve and Enjoy
This chili is particularly delicious when served with a side of warm cornbread. For an extra touch, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. This final addition will enhance the richness of the dish, making it an unforgettable meal for your guests.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: This chili can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and chili peppers according to your preference for heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Consider serving with a side of rice or over baked potatoes for a hearty, comforting meal.
This chili is more than just a dish; it’s a labor of love that reflects countless iterations and perfecting of flavors. Enjoy each bite of your Just the Way We Like It Chili, and share the warmth with those you love!
