Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a 7.5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, jalapeños, and red peppers, and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground meat, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook for 5 to 6 minutes while stirring occasionally until cooked through.
- Remove the pan from heat, drain the fat, and return the meat and vegetables to the pot. Stir in the spices, starting with 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and cook for 2 minutes. Add tomato paste, stir to combine, and cook for 3 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, stir, and cook for 1 minute. Stir in beans and stock, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a low simmer and partially cover; cook for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens.
- Taste for seasoning and add more salt or pepper if desired. Remove from heat and serve with sour cream, cheese, onions, and chips as desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Notes
Flavor Secret: I have found that the cocoa powder and cinnamon provide a deep, earthy richness that balances the heat perfectly without making the dish taste like dessert.
Texture Tip: I suggest mashing a handful of the beans against the side of the pot during the final simmer to release their natural starches if you want an even thicker consistency.
Make Ahead Strategy: I always try to make this a day in advance because the flavors truly marry and deepen after a night in the refrigerator.
Heat Management: I make sure to scrape out every single seed from the jalapeno when I want a milder version, but I keep them in if I am craving a more serious kick.
Freezer Advice: This freezes exceptionally well for up to three months, so I often double the batch and store individual portions in freezer bags for quick dinners.
Browning Secret: I have learned that taking the time to really brown the beef before adding the liquid is essential for building a savory base that prevents the chili from tasting flat.
Bean Variation: I love the visual contrast of using both light and dark kidney beans, but you can swap in pinto or black beans if you prefer a different texture.