Classic Beef and Bean Chili
- Chili
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 lb ground beef, 85% lean
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can crushed tomatoes, 28 oz
- 1 can kidney beans, 15 oz, drained and rinsed
- 1 can pinto beans, 15 oz, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Toppings
- shredded cheddar, sour cream, sliced green onions, tortilla chips (optional)
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
- Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and 1 teaspoon salt and break it into crumbles. Cook until browned and no pink remains (160°F / 71°C). Spoon off all but about 1 tablespoon of fat.
- Add the onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring, until softened.
- Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne and tomato paste. Stir constantly until the spices smell toasty.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beans, broth and remaining salt. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer partly covered, stirring every 10 minutes or so and scraping the bottom, until thick and rich.
- Taste and adjust the salt and heat. Ladle into bowls and add toppings.
Classic Beef and Bean Chili
- Cook to 160°F inside (check with a thermometer).