Hearty Beef and Bean Chili

Hearty Beef and Bean Chili

When the weather cools down, nothing beats a bowl of hot, flavorful chili. This traditional beef and bean chili is not only filling and delicious but also easy to make. Packed with protein-rich beef and beans, simmered in a rich tomato base with spices, it’s a meal that will satisfy the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) beans (kidney, pinto, or black), drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring the chili to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened to your liking.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed.
8. Serve the chili hot, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions.

This beef and bean chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and hearty meal anytime. Enjoy!