Chili is a fantastic dish for families because it’s hearty, easy to make, and can be customized to suit various tastes. This recipe balances mild heat with rich flavors, making it a great option for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
- 2 tablespoons mild chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any cooking oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), and beef broth. Add the kidney beans, black beans, and corn.
- Season: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Add Sweetness (Optional): If you prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors, stir in the honey about 10 minutes before the chili is done.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your family’s taste.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with optional toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado slices. Pair with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for a Family-Friendly Chili
- Mild Spice Level: This recipe is designed to be mild, but you can adjust the chili powder to make it spicier if preferred. For young children, keep it on the milder side.
- Sneaky Veggies: For picky eaters, you can finely chop or grate additional vegetables like carrots or zucchini and add them to the chili.
- Make Ahead: Chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Customizable: Feel free to customize the chili with your favorite ingredients, such as different types of beans or vegetables, to suit your family’s preferences.
This family-friendly chili recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. Its mild flavor and hearty ingredients make it a dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!