Classic Hearty Chili

American · Year-round · 150 min · Serves 6 · By The Lesapor Kitchen

This classic chili is the perfect dish to enjoy any night of the week. It's hearty, filling, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and ground pork. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly to coat the meat with the spices.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste before serving.