A steaming bowl of chili is one of the most comforting meals you can make, and this recipe is packed with robust flavors that the whole family will enjoy. Featuring a medley of fresh vegetables, hearty ground meat, and rich spices, this chili strikes the perfect balance of warmth and savoriness.
What sets this recipe apart is its clever trick for achieving the ideal thickness—using quick-cooking oats! The oats blend seamlessly into the dish, thickening it beautifully without altering the taste. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or game day, this chili recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Chili
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 Tbsp ground cumin
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 can (6 oz, or 170 g) tomato paste
- 2 quarts (1.9 liters) beef stock
- 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
- 2 lbs (900 g) ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cans (14 oz each, or 400 g each) roasted tomatoes (or homemade)
- 3 cans (15 oz each, or 425 g each) beans of your choice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 tsp salt and pepper, or to taste
- 1-2 tsp vegetable oil, bacon grease, or olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions for Hearty Chili
- In a large pot, lightly brown the ground pork and beef, then drain off some of the fat. Avoid overcooking the meat to maintain its moisture. If you prefer, you can use 3 lbs (1.35 kg) of ground beef instead of adding pork. Set the browned meat aside.
- Chop the bell peppers and onion. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot, and sauté the vegetables for a few minutes until slightly softened.
- Add the browned meat to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the spices to infuse the meat.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it brown for another few minutes. This step deepens the flavor, but take care not to burn the mixture. Add the minced garlic and cook for just a minute, being cautious to avoid burning the garlic.
- Add the roasted tomatoes, beef stock, beans, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together, cover partially, and let it simmer for 40 minutes. If the consistency isn’t thick enough for your preference, move on to the next step.
- For a thicker chili, stir in 1/4 cup (30 g) of quick-cooking oats or long-cooking oats. Let the chili cook a little longer to allow the oats to blend and thicken the dish. Another option is to use a stick blender to puree a small portion of the beans, which will create a smoother, thicker base.
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer to roast your own tomatoes, spread them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes. For added flavor, you can also roast the bell peppers.
- Using pre-seasoned chili beans in addition to regular beans can enhance the flavor without requiring extra spices.
- If you like less spice, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, for more heat, add an extra chili or a dash of hot sauce.
- Quick-cooking oats are a fantastic thickening option, often used in vegetarian chili recipes. They add body without compromising flavor.
Final Thoughts
This hearty chili recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its rich, robust flavors and perfectly balanced heat. Whether you’re simmering it for a casual family meal or preparing it for a special gathering, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Don’t forget to pair it with a slice of fresh cornbread or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the flavorful broth. With its secret thickening trick and customizable options, this chili is sure to become a favorite for years to come!
