To make chili, start by sautéing chopped onions and bell peppers in oil until softened, then add minced garlic and cook briefly. Brown ground beef in the pot, breaking it into small pieces. Next, stir in tomato paste and a mix of spices including chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper, cooking until aromatic. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney and pinto beans, and beef broth, then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until thickened. Season to taste and serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Ingredients summary:
- Olive oil, onion, bell pepper, garlic
- Ground beef (preferably lean)
- Tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce
- Kidney and pinto beans (canned, rinsed)
- Chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, cayenne, black pepper
- Beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, sliced green onions
Basic steps:
- Sauté onion and bell pepper in oil, add garlic.
- Brown ground beef.
- Add tomato paste and spices, cook until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and broth—bring to simmer.
- Simmer uncovered until thickened (25-30 minutes).
- Adjust seasoning and serve with preferred toppings.
This method produces a flavorful, hearty chili that can be adjusted for heat and thickness according to preference.
