Delicious Beef Chili with Jalapeños Recipe

Introduction

Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This Beef Chili with Jalapeños takes the classic chili recipe to the next level with the addition of spicy jalapeños, creating a perfect blend of savory beef and zesty heat. Whether youre preparing for a family gathering, game day, or just a cozy evening at home, this chili is sure to impress. Packed with protein and rich flavors, it offers a delightful dining experience that is both satisfying and enjoyable.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

To make Beef Chili with Jalapeños, gather the following ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 jalapeños, diced (adjust based on heat preference)
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocados

Equipment

For an easy cooking experience, ensure you have the following equipment:

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Can opener

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown it, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat with a wooden spoon to ensure even cooking.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.

4. Incorporate the Rest of the Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Adjust the Consistency (if needed)

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid. Conversely, if its too thick, add a bit more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve

Once the chili is cooked, remove it from the heat. Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocados.

Variations

This Beef Chili with Jalapeños can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations:

Spicy Variants: For an extra kick, add more jalapeños or include diced habaneros.
Bean-Free Option: For a low-carb version, omit the beans and increase the amount of beef or vegetables instead.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or mushrooms for a vegetarian chili.
Slow Cooker Method: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer them to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours with all other ingredients.

Storage

Storing your Beef Chili with Jalapeños is easy. Here are some tips:

Refrigeration: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chili in individual portions. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of beef broth if the chili is too thick after thawing.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef Chili with Jalapeños is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

With Cornbread: Serve warm slices of cornbread alongside the chili to soak up all the flavors.
Over Rice: Spoon the chili over a bed of white or brown rice for a filling meal.
Chili Dogs: Use the chili as a topping for hot dogs or sausages at your next cookout.
As a Nacho Topping: Layer over tortilla chips with melted cheese and your favorite toppings for a delicious nacho platter.

Conclusion

This Beef Chili with Jalapeños recipe is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening or to serve at your next gathering. The combination of spicy jalapeños and savory beef makes every bite a delightful experience. With easy preparation steps and the option to customize, it caters to all tastes and preferences. Enjoy exploring the various ways to serve and savor this comforting dish, and bring the tangy heat of jalapeños into your kitchen today!