This Easy Chili recipe is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. It's hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to hit the spot every time. With just a handful of simple ingredients and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a steaming bowl of delicious chili that will warm you up from the inside out.
To make this easy chili, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Here's how to make it:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and kidney beans. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your easy chili hot, topped with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. This recipe makes enough for about 4 servings, but you can easily double or triple it if you're feeding a crowd.
Enjoy this easy chili for a satisfying and hearty meal that's quick and easy to make!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CHILI
While I don't have personal feelings or preferences, I can certainly highlight reasons why someone might love a particular chili recipe. Here are some common features that people often appreciate in a good chili:
Bold Flavors: A great chili often combines a variety of spices and ingredients to create a rich and robust flavor profile. The blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and other spices can be quite enticing.
Hearty and Filling: Chili is often a hearty and satisfying dish, filled with protein from ingredients like beans and meat. This can make it a substantial and comforting meal.
Customizable: Chili recipes are often flexible, allowing for personalization based on individual tastes. Whether you like it spicier, milder, with more vegetables, or a particular type of meat, you can adjust the recipe to suit your preferences.
Versatile: Chili can be served in various ways – over rice, with cornbread, on top of hot dogs, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. Its versatility makes it a favorite for many occasions.
Ease of Preparation: Many chili recipes are relatively easy to prepare. They often involve one-pot cooking, making cleanup simple and the cooking process convenient.
Perfect for Gatherings: Chili is a popular choice for potlucks, game day gatherings, and other social events. It can be made in large batches and keeps well for leftovers.
Comfort Food Appeal: There's something about the warmth and spice of chili that resonates with comfort food cravings. It's perfect for cold days or when you're looking for a satisfying, feel-good meal.
Healthy Ingredients: Depending on the recipe, chili can incorporate nutritious ingredients like lean protein, beans, and vegetables, making it a relatively healthy choice.
Aromatic Aromas: The enticing smell of chili simmering on the stove can be a reason to love it. The aroma as it cooks can fill a home and create anticipation for a delicious meal.
Ultimately, the reasons someone might love a particular chili recipe can vary based on personal taste preferences and the overall experience it provides.
HOW DO YOU THIN HOMEMADE CHILI?
If your homemade chili is too thick and you'd like to thin it out, there are several methods you can try. Here are some common ways to achieve a thinner consistency:
1. Add More Liquid:
- The simplest way to thin out chili is to add more liquid. You can use water, broth (vegetable, chicken, or beef), or tomato juice. Add the liquid gradually, stirring and checking the consistency until you reach your desired thickness.
2. Use Tomato Sauce or Crushed Tomatoes:
- If your chili has a tomato base, adding more tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can help thin it out while maintaining the flavor. This also contributes to the overall richness of the chili.
3. Employ Broth or Stock:
- Broth or stock, depending on your preference, can be an excellent way to add moisture and flavor to the chili. Gradually pour it in and stir until you achieve the desired consistency.
4. Adjust Spices and Seasonings:
- Adding more spices and seasonings may be necessary when you add extra liquid to maintain the flavor balance. Taste the chili as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
5. Consider Vinegar or Citrus Juice:
- A splash of vinegar or citrus juice (such as lime or lemon) can brighten the flavors in your chili while also helping to thin it out. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
6. Use a Blender or Immersion Blender:
- If you have a particularly chunky chili and want to thin it out while maintaining a smooth texture, you can use a blender or immersion blender. Blend a portion of the chili until smooth and then mix it back into the remaining chili.
7. Simmer Longer:
- Sometimes, simmering the chili for an extended period can reduce its thickness. If you have time, let it cook uncovered on low heat, and some of the liquid will evaporate.
8. Dilute with a Cooking Liquid:
- If you have reserved the cooking liquid from beans or other ingredients, you can use that liquid to thin the chili. It not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor.
Remember to make adjustments gradually and taste as you go to ensure that the flavor and consistency align with your preferences.