This Chili Parlor Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish, inspired by the rich, meaty chili often served in classic chili parlors. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a game day feast.
📋 Ingredients:
- 🍖 2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 🧅 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌶️ 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 🌶️ 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 🥫 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 🌿 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 🥄 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 🌿 1 teaspoon paprika
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
- 🌿 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 🍯 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
- 🥛 2 cups beef broth or water
- 🌿 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 🥛 1/4 cup masa harina (optional, for thickening)
- 🌿 Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or crackers
📝 Directions:
Cook the Meat:
- Brown Ground Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. - Add Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add the Flavor:
- Spice It Up:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
Build the Chili:
- Add Tomatoes and Sauce:
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth (or water) to the pot. Stir to combine. - Optional Ingredients:
Add the kidney beans (if using), Worcestershire sauce (if using), and sugar (if using) to the pot. - Simmer:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Thicken the Chili (Optional):
- Use Masa Harina:
If you prefer a thicker chili, mix the masa harina with a little water to make a slurry. Stir it into the chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve:
Serve the chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or crackers.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories: 400 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time and reheating it for your meal.
- For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Chili Parlor Chili!