Authentic Texas Chili
A hearty, comforting chili bursting with bold flavors and rich textures; perfect for winter evenings or game nights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20) Tender and juicy, serves as the rich foundation of the chili.
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped Adds depth and flavor to the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced A must-have for fragrant kick.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes Provides a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth Infuses the chili with moisture.
- 2 tbsp chili powder Essential spice blend for heat and complexity.
- 1 tsp cumin Balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust to taste for more kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or pinto beans (optional) Adds texture and fiber.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by prepping your ingredients: Chop the yellow onion and mince the garlic.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Cooking
- Add ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spoon till it’s no longer pink.
- Once browned, add onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, another 1-2 minutes.
- Add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; stir well to combine.
- Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes with their juices, and mix thoroughly.
- Add the low-sodium beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes uncovered, stirring occasionally.
- If using beans, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added texture.
Notes
Don’t rush the sautéing process to develop deeper flavors.