Why You’ll Love this Slow Simmered Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, you’ll love this slow simmered chili recipe. It’s packed with flavor and comfort, making it perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings.
The beauty of this chili lies in its simplicity; just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the work. I love how the ingredients meld together, creating a rich, savory blend that’s utterly satisfying.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your taste. Trust me, once you try it, this chili will become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients of Slow Simmered Chili
When it comes to making a delicious pot of chili, having the right ingredients is key. This slow simmered chili isn’t just any ordinary chili; it’s a bowl of cozy goodness that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself (and let’s be honest, we’ve all been there with a giant bowl and a Netflix binge), you’ll find that these ingredients work perfectly together to create a hearty dish that fills not just your belly, but your soul too.
So, gather your shopping list, and let’s get ready to plunge into some chili magic.
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful slow simmered chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 16 ounces kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 green pepper, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Now, while these ingredients are pretty standard for a classic chili, feel free to get a little wild if you want.
Want to add some spice? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Not a fan of kidney beans? Black beans or pinto beans can make a great substitute too.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some corn for a little sweetness? Personalizing your chili can turn it into a family favorite that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Make Slow Simmered Chili
Making slow simmered chili is like giving your kitchen a warm hug. It’s simple, comforting, and honestly, hard to mess up, which is a big win in my book. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started, shall we?
First things first, grab that 1 lb of ground beef and brown it in a skillet over medium heat. You want it to cook until it’s nice and browned—nothing worse than a gray hunk of meat in your chili, right? Once it’s looking good, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
Now, onto the star of the show: the slow cooker. Toss that browned beef into your slow cooker, along with 16 ounces of kidney beans (make sure to rinse and drain them first—no one wants a can of bean juice in their chili), 14 1/2 ounces of diced tomatoes, and 4 ounces of tomato sauce.
Then, add in a chopped medium onion, 1/2 green pepper (also chopped, of course), and a garlic clove that you’ve minced. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Give it all a good stir, so everything’s well mixed—think of it as a little dance party in your slow cooker.
Now, the magic happens. Set your slow cooker to simmer on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Yes, you heard me right, patience is key here. As it simmers away, your home will fill with the most mouthwatering aroma, and you might find yourself checking the clock every few minutes, wondering why time seems to be moving so slowly.
But trust me, the wait will be worth it. When it’s finally done, you’ll have a big ol’ pot of hearty chili that’s just begging for a bowl and maybe a sprinkle of cheese on top. Enjoy!
Slow Simmered Chili Substitutions & Variations
Wondering how to switch things up with your slow simmered chili? I love experimenting with different proteins like ground turkey or even diced chicken for a lighter option.
If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or tempeh instead of meat. For beans, black beans or pinto beans add a nice twist.
You can also mix up the spices—add cumin for warmth or smoked paprika for depth. Don’t forget to throw in some chopped jalapeños for heat or corn for sweetness.
Each variation brings a new flavor profile, ensuring I never get bored of this comforting dish!
What to Serve with Slow Simmered Chili
To elevate your slow simmered chili experience, consider pairing it with some classic sides that complement its rich flavors.
I love serving it with warm, crusty cornbread; it’s perfect for soaking up all that deliciousness. You can’t go wrong with tortilla chips, either—they add a satisfying crunch.
A simple green salad adds freshness, balancing the chili’s hearty nature. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, jalapeño cornbread is a fantastic twist.
Finally, don’t forget toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions; they really enhance each bowl, making every bite a delight. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re enjoying that delicious slow simmered chili, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind for the best results.
First, feel free to customize the heat; adding jalapeños or cayenne can spice things up!
I also like to let the chili sit overnight; the flavors deepen and blend beautifully.
If you prefer a thicker texture, try mashing some beans or adding a cornstarch slurry.
Don’t forget to taste before serving—adjusting seasoning can elevate your dish.
Finally, garnishing with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream adds a delightful touch.
Enjoy your chili adventure!