Big Pot of Chili: A Hearty Crowd-Pleaser
1. Introduction
A big pot of chili is the ultimate comfort food and a perfect dish for feeding a crowd. This hearty and flavorful chili is packed with tender chunks of beef, beans, and a medley of spices that will warm you up on chilly days. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
2. Ingredients
- 2 pounds (900g) ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14 ounces/400g each) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 ounces/425g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 ounces/170g) tomato paste
- 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
3. Directions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the chili with salt and black pepper to taste. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
4. How to Prepare
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or salt to suit your taste.
- Serve the big pot of chili hot in bowls. Garnish each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
5. Preparation Time
The total preparation time for a big pot of chili is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including cooking time. The slow simmering is essential for developing the rich flavors.
6. Servings
This recipe yields a generous amount of chili and can serve about 8-10 people, making it perfect for gatherings, parties, or leftovers for the week.
7. Tips
- Customize your chili by adding ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
8. Conclusion
A big pot of chili is a beloved classic that brings people together around the dinner table. Its robust flavor and versatility make it a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed on various occasions. So, ladle up a bowl of this delicious chili and savor its comforting warmth and bold flavors.
