Ah, the aroma of chili simmering on a cool Texas evening takes me back to those long, lazy Sundays spent with family and friends, gathered around the kitchen table sharing stories and laughter. The smell of rich spices mingling with tender meat and vibrant peppers fills the air, making everyone’s mouths water in anticipation. There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of chili, especially when it’s brimming with authentic Texas flavors. This Original Texas Chili recipe is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that captures the heart of Texas cuisine.

What I love most about this chili is its simplicity and depth of flavor. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, with roots that run deep in Texas tradition. Whether you’re cozied up on the couch watching a game, feeding a crowd, or just needing something hearty on a chilly night, this chili will hold you tight and warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under an hour!
• Budget-friendly with simple ingredients.
• Comforting, rich, and full of robust flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
• Customizable with various spices and toppings to suit your palate.
• Perfect for meal prep: it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chili:

• 2 lbs ground beef (or a meat substitute for a vegetarian option)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
• 2 medium bell peppers (any color), diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder (more if you like it spicy!)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• Optional: jalapeños, diced for extra heat and flavor
• For toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be enveloped in the comforting smell of chili:

1. Brown the meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). If you’re using a leaner meat, a dash of olive oil may help it brown better!
2. Add the veggies: Once the meat is browned, toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. The combination of sautéed onions and sweet bell peppers creates an irresistible flavor base.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Nothing beats the smell of garlic cooking!
4. Introduce the spices: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and veggies with the spices. Let it cook for another minute to let those flavors develop.
5. Add the liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, and broth. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the chili to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
7. Simmer: Let it simmer gently for at least 30-40 minutes. This is when all those flavors will blend beautifully. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

Pro Tips & Variations

This Original Texas Chili is already a winner, but here are some fun twists and helpful tips to take it to the next level:

• Spicy Variations: If you love a kick, throw in some diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also switch up the beans: black beans or pinto beans can add a different texture and flavor!
• Smoky Flavor: For an even smokier profile, consider adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or some smoked sausage pieces.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for lentils, tempeh, or mushrooms. You can even make it a hearty bean chili by doubling the beans!
• Toppings Galore: Get creative with toppings! From avocado slices to crispy tortilla strips, the topping options are endless. Don’t forget plenty of cheese and a dollop of sour cream for creaminess!

Serving Suggestions

This chili is so versatile. I love serving it with warm, buttery cornbread on the side. There’s just something magical about that combination! You could also scoop some chili over rice for a heartier meal or pile it into soft tortillas for a fun taco night.

Don’t forget about that cold beverage to wash it down! A refreshing iced tea or a cold beer pairs perfectly with the heat of the chili. And if you’re feeling extra cozy, a slice of cornbread slathered with butter and honey makes for a perfect finishing touch.

Storage Tips

Now, I don’t know about you, but my chili tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to properly store it:

• Refrigerate: Allow the chili to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days! Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll be good to go.
• Freeze: To freeze, let it cool and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag (remember to leave room for expansion!). It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It’ll be just as flavorful as when you first made it!

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just be sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium and any canning liquid taste.

What can I do if my chili is too spicy?

If you find your chili has turned out too spicy, don’t despair! You can mellow it out by adding a dollop of sour cream, some shredded cheese, or even a spoonful of sugar or honey to balance the heat!

Can I prepare this chili in advance?

You bet! Chili is one of those dishes that improves with time, so feel free to make it a day or two in advance. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating.

What’s the secret to a thick chili?

For a thicker chili, it’s all about simmering! Allow it to simmer uncovered for a little longer to let the liquid reduce. If you need a quicker fix, you can mash some of the beans into the chili, which will naturally thicken it up.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll be rewarded with a wonderfully rich flavor!

Conclusion

And there you have it! A lovely bowl of Original Texas Chili that’s not only a feast for your taste buds but also a gathering point for family and friends. I’d love to hear about your chili-making adventures, so feel free to drop a comment below sharing how you enjoyed it or any special twists you added along the way. Happy cooking, y’all!

Ultimate Original Texas Chili Recipe Bold Flavorful Easy

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the best Original Texas Chili recipe packed with bold flavors and easy steps Perfect for a satisfying hearty meal 142 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 lbs of ground beef

1 large onion, diced

4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced

2 medium bell peppers, diced

2 cans (15 oz each) of diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste

1 tablespoon of chili powder

2 teaspoons of ground cumin

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups of beef broth

Optional: jalapeños, diced

For toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro

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Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).

Once the meat is browned, toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and veggies with the spices.

Pour in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, and broth. Mix everything together until well combined.

Increase the heat and bring the chili to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Let it simmer gently for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally and adjusting seasoning if needed.

Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded, ladle it into bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings.

Notes

A comforting and flavorful Original Texas Chili recipe that captures the essence of Texas cuisine, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Texan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Protein: 30 grams

Keywords: chili, Texas chili, comfort food, easy recipes, family recipes