Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to wrap you in comfort, especially when it’s homemade! 🌶️✨ This hearty recipe is a delightful nod to Wendy’s famous chili, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on your dinner rotation. Let’s get cooking!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds fresh ground beef
1 quart tomato juice
1 can (29 ounces) tomato purée
1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans
1 medium-large onion, chopped
1/2 cup diced celery
1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
1/4 cup chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 🌶️
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french
Temps de cuisson: 1 à 1,5 heures
Temps total: 1,25 à 2 heures
Rendement: 6 à 8 portions
Now, let’s get into the cooking!
1. Start by cooking up that ground beef! In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the beef until it’s nice and golden. Remember to drain any excess fat; we want a flavorful chili without the grease! 🥩✨
2. Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Transfer that beautifully browned beef into a spacious 6-quart pot.
3. In the same pot, add in all the remaining ingredients. That’s right—everything from the vibrant tomato juice to those hearty beans! 🎉
4. Give it a little stir to combine everything, then cover your pot. Let your chili simmer gently on the stove for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Don’t forget to stir every 15 minutes; this helps all those delicious flavors marry together beautifully.
5. If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can also cook this in a slow cooker on low for 3 to 4 hours. It’s a great way to deepen the flavors while you go about your day! 🕒
Now, grab your favorite bowl, a sprinkle of cheese or some cornbread if you’d like, and enjoy this hearty chili packed with flavor and love! 🥣💖
Happy cooking, friends! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me!
#ChiliLove #ComfortFood #HomemadeGoodness #FamilyRecipes #WarmAndCozy
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the 2 pounds of fresh ground beef until it’s golden. Drain any excess fat to ensure a flavorful chili without excess grease.
Step 2: Transfer the Beef
Once the beef is browned, transfer it into a spacious 6-quart pot to prepare for the next ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the same pot, add in all the remaining ingredients: 1 quart of tomato juice, 1 can of tomato purée (29 ounces), 1 can of red kidney beans (15 ounces), 1 can of pinto beans (15 ounces), 1 chopped medium-large onion, 1/2 cup of diced celery, and 1/4 cup each of diced green bell pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper, dried oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper.
Step 4: Stir and Simmer
Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients. Cover your pot and let the chili simmer gently on the stove for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Be sure to stir every 15 minutes to help the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Slow Cooker Option
For a hands-off approach, transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. This method allows the flavors to deepen while you go about your day.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili in your favorite bowl, and feel free to top it with a sprinkle of cheese or pair it with cornbread for an extra cozy meal.
Flavor Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Add more chili powder for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder version.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
Sharing Your Creation
Don’t forget to share your delicious chili creations and tag your cooking friends!
Cook techniques
Brown the Meat
Brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s golden. This step adds depth of flavor to your chili and ensures a robust taste.
Combining Ingredients
Transfer the browned beef to a large pot and add all remaining ingredients together. Mixing them at this stage allows the flavors to blend seamlessly as they cook.
Simmering
Cover the pot and let your chili simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours on low. Stir every 15 minutes to ensure an even distribution of flavors and prevent sticking.
Slow Cooking Option
For a more hands-off approach, you can cook the chili in a slow cooker on low for 3 to 4 hours. This method enhances the flavors while you focus on other tasks.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, or even a combination of meats for a different flavor profile.
How can I make the chili spicier?
If you prefer spicier chili, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add in some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of beans, lentils, or meat alternatives to create a hearty vegetarian chili.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on.
Conclusion
There’s a unique comfort in making your own chili from scratch, and this recipe inspired by Wendy’s famous chili is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening or sharing with friends at a gathering. Plus, there’s something immensely satisfying about serving a homemade meal that’s both delicious and nourishing. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists!
Chili Cheese Dogs
Top grilled hot dogs with your homemade chili and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an irresistible twist on a classic favorite.
Chili-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use any leftover chili to fill halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake for a wholesome, colorful dish.
Chili Tortilla Soup
Transform your chili into a delightful soup by adding some broth, tortilla strips, and avocado for a refreshing change.
Chili Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with your chili, cheese, jalapeños, and any other toppings you love for a game-day snack that’s bound to impress.
Chili Mac
Combine cooked macaroni with your chili for a hearty and filling casserole that brings together two classic comfort foods.
Chili over Rice
Serve your chili on a bed of fluffy rice for an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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