Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a simmering pot of chili on a lazy Sunday afternoon. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply warming up on a chilly evening. Packed with savory flavors, tender meat, and a hint of spice, this Sunday chili recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Add ground beef and ground pork. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, red and green bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot with the cooked meat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and aromatic.
3. Add Tomatoes and Sauce:
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine with the meat and vegetables.
4. Seasoning and Simmering:
- Add chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, brown sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
5. Beans and Broth:
- Add drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Pour in beef broth (or chicken broth). Stir well and bring the chili to a simmer.
6. Simmering and Flavor Infusion:
- Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer gently for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the Sunday chili into bowls. Garnish with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with cornbread, rice, or crusty bread on the side.
Tips for Perfect Sunday Chili:
- Meat Selection: Using a combination of ground beef and ground pork adds depth of flavor. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less chili powder and jalapeño peppers.
- Beans: Feel free to use your favorite beans or a combination of different beans.
- Simmering Time: The longer the chili simmers, the better the flavors will develop. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but an hour or more is ideal.
- Leftovers: Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Sunday chili with a side of cornbread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.
- Set up a chili bar with various toppings such as shredded cheese, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, and tortilla chips for guests to customize their bowls.
- This chili is perfect for game day gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
This Sunday chili recipe is guaranteed to warm hearts and bellies with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet weekend at home, this hearty dish will become a staple in your kitchen.