Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili

🌵🍅🌶️ Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili 🍅🌶️🌵

History:
Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish inspired by the Southwestern cuisine of the United States. The region’s culinary traditions are influenced by Mexican and Native American flavors, known for their bold and spicy character. This chili captures the essence of Arizona’s sunny climate and rich agricultural heritage.

Components:

• 1 lb ground beef (or any meat/vegetarian substitute)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Preparation Steps:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Brown the Meat: If you’re using ground beef, add it to the pot and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

3. Spice it Up: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, and paprika over the meat and stir well. This step allows the spices to bloom and infuse their flavors into the chili.

4. Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir everything together.

5. Introduce the Beans: Add the kidney beans and black beans. These beans provide heartiness and a creamy texture to the chili.

6. Liquid Love: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper. Adjust the amount of broth based on your desired consistency; you can add more for a thinner chili or less for a thicker one.

7. Simmer and Savor: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer, uncovered, for about 30-45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken.

8. Serve and Garnish: Serve your Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. These toppings add a delightful touch to the dish.

Time Needed:
Preparation time for this chili is approximately 15-20 minutes, and the cooking time takes around 45 minutes. So, in total, you can have this mouthwatering Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili ready in about 60-65 minutes. It’s a fantastic, wholesome meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening with a Southwestern flair. Enjoy! 🌶️🍅😋

Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Arizona Sun-Dried Tomato Chili:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 250-300
• Total Fat: 6-8 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 30-40 milligrams
• Sodium: 600-800 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 8-10 grams
• Sugars: 5-7 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams

Key Health Information:

1. Protein: This chili is a good source of protein, making it a satisfying and filling meal. Protein is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Fiber: With a high content of dietary fiber, this chili supports digestive health and can help you feel full for longer, aiding in weight management.

3. Healthy Fats: The moderate amount of total fat, especially when using lean meat, provides essential fatty acids and helps keep you feeling full.

4. Low Sugar: It contains relatively low sugar, which is beneficial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

5. Rich in Antioxidants: The sun-dried tomatoes and spices in the chili are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

6. Heart Health: The beans in the chili are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health.

7. Caloric Content: The calorie content per serving is reasonable, making it a balanced choice for most diets.

8. Sodium Consideration: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you are on a low-sodium diet. You can reduce the sodium by using low-sodium broth and canned ingredients.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.