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Introduction
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a hearty bowl of Texas Heartwarming Chili. This recipe combines rich flavors and a touch of spice, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones. Warm up your hearts and your taste buds with this comforting classic.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kg beef chuck, cut into 2 cm cubes
50 g vegetable oil
200 g white onion, diced
150 g green bell pepper, diced
200 g red bell pepper, diced
5 cloves garlic, minced
60 g tomato paste
800 g canned chopped tomatoes
500 ml beef broth
60 g chili powder
10 g ground cumin
15 g smoked paprika
10 g cayenne pepper
5 g ground black pepper
10 g salt
15 g oregano
400 g kidney beans, drained and rinsed
400 g pinto beans, drained and rinsed
15 g brown sugar
30 ml apple cider vinegar
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 3 hrs 50 mins
Yield: 8 servings
Prepare to impress your guests and loved ones with this warm and delightful Texas Heartwarming Chili, perfect for any cozy gathering!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the diced green and red bell peppers along with minced garlic, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Mix in the tomato paste, ensuring it’s well combined with the sautéed vegetables.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot, and add the canned chopped tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, salt, and oregano. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Add Beans and Adjust Flavors
After 2 hours, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and pinto beans, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Continue to simmer uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Final Taste Test
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chili can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving the chili with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to store the chili for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and remember to leave some space for expansion when freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the chili on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Texas Heartwarming Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, or freshly chopped cilantro to enhance the flavors. Add diced jalapeños for extra heat or serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy side.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1/8 of recipe):
– Calories: 490
– Total Fat: 22g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 80mg
– Sodium: 800mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 10g
– Sugars: 6g
– Protein: 34g
Ingredient Substitutions
– Beef Chuck: Substitute with ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
– Vegetable Oil: Can be replaced with olive oil or canola oil.
– Beans: Use black beans or chickpeas instead of kidney or pinto beans if preferred.
– Tomato Paste: Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can be used in place of tomato paste, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
– Chili Powder: For a different flavor profile, use taco seasoning or a blend of smoked paprika and cayenne.
– Apple Cider Vinegar: Red wine vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Cook techniques
Searing
Searing the beef cubes over medium-high heat creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall taste of the chili. Make sure to brown them on all sides before removing them from the pot.
Sautéing
Cooking the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft and fragrant develops a rich base for the chili. This technique adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Simmering
Allowing the chili to simmer slowly for several hours melds all the flavors together. This low and slow cooking method is essential for achieving a tender texture and rich taste.
Deglazing
After browning the beef, deglazing the pot with the liquids helps to lift the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom, adding complexity to the dish.
Layering flavors
Adding spices like chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne during cooking enhances the taste. It’s essential to taste and adjust seasonings as the dish develops.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with pork, turkey, or chicken. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat you choose.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amounts of cayenne pepper and chili powder according to your preference.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What toppings do you recommend?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Celebrate love with a bowl of Texas Heartwarming Chili, a dish that brings together robust flavors and warmth. Perfect for sharing with family or friends, this chili not only fills the belly but also nourishes the heart. Gather around the table, enjoy the comforting aroma, and create wonderful memories this Valentine’s Day.
Spicy Chicken Chili
A twist on the classic, using diced chicken breast and a blend of jalapeños for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Chili
Swap out the beef for a medley of roasted vegetables, beans, and lentils, creating a deliciously hearty plant-based alternative.
Chili Mac
Combine your chili with elbow macaroni for a fulfilling casserole-style dish that’s perfect for a family dinner.
Chili Stuffed Peppers
Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with a mix of chili and cheese for a fun and flavorful presentation.
Sweet and Spicy Chili
Add diced pineapple and a hint of honey to your chili for a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.
Chili Tacos
Serve your chili in soft or hard taco shells topped with cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for a festive twist.
Chili over Rice
Serve your hearty chili over a bed of steamed rice for a comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
