The argument continues whether homemade chili is made with beans or without beans. Either way, making chili at home is simple and easy. Take a bit of meat and a few cans of this and that, add in a few spices and you can have tasty chili on the table in less than an hour.
The Meat
Hamburger is the most used meat in chili recipes. If using burger, it can be beef, venison, pork or turkey. Stew meat can also be used. The meat will need to be browned before using in any chili recipe. If you are wanting a vegetarian chili, try substituting beef-flavored textured vegetable protein (TVP) for the meat.
The Vegetables
Chopped onions and tomatoes are two essential ingredients for chili. Many recipes add chopped green pepper and garlic. The vegetables, other than the tomatoes, can be cooked at the same time that you are browning the meat. This is to soften the veggies and release the flavors. Tomatoes can be fresh or canned.
The Spices
The spices common to most chili are chili powder and cumin. Other spices include black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and horseradish. Some recipes call for jalapeno or other hot peppers to give the dish some heat. You can even purchase packets of chili seasoning from the grocery store to make it easier.
The Beans
Beans used in chili are usually dry beans, such as pinto, buffalo or light or dark red kidneys. You can use canned beans, either plain or seasoned chili beans. To make a simple, fast chili, canned beans are the way to go.
Portions
Plan on at least a pound of meat for chili to serve a family of four. You'll need one onion, one green pepper, and several cloves of garlic. Have on hand two cans of whole tomatoes and two cans of seasoned chili beans.
Putting It All Together
In a large stockpot, add a couple of tablespoons of cooking oil and heat the pot over medium high heat. Add the meat of your choice and brown it evenly. Add a chopped onion, a chopped clove or two of garlic and a chopped green pepper and cook until the onions are translucent and the pepper is soft. Add the spices using several tablespoons of chili powder and one to two teaspoons of any remaining spices you desire. Stir in two cans of whole tomatoes along with the juice in the can. If desired, add a can or two of seasoned chili beans. Cook the mixture for 30 to 45 minutes over medium heat and serve.
Tags: chili beans, green pepper, seasoned chili, seasoned chili beans, canned beans, cans whole