Chipotle Chili is a hearty dish that packs a punch of smoky flavor with spicy chipotle peppers. It’s made with tender meat, beans, and lots of tasty spices, making it perfect for a cozy meal.
You know, nothing warms you up like a big bowl of chili! I love topping it with cheese and sour cream, and enjoying it with some bread—that’s pure comfort food right there! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: It’s great for sautéing, but you can swap it with any cooking oil you have, like avocado oil or vegetable oil. I love olive oil for its flavor, but the choice is yours!
Ground Beef: Ground turkey is a fantastic lower-fat option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or tempeh for protein. They work great in chili and add a nice texture!
Chipotle Peppers: These are the star of the dish! If you prefer less heat, use just one or swap with smoked paprika for a milder flavor. You can also use dried chipotle ground chili if you can’t find the canned version.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic, but black beans or pinto beans can be good substitutes. I sometimes mix in a variety for extra texture.
Broth: If you want a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth. It adds a nice depth of flavor, just like beef broth. Sometimes, I make my own broth from veggie scraps—it’s so fulfilling!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chili?
Getting great flavor in your chili is all about building layers! Start by sautéing the onions and bell peppers until they’re soft. It’s worth taking those few minutes—this step builds a flavorful base.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat. Let it get nice and browned for flavor.
- Cook the spices with the meat for a minute or two to really bloom those flavors.
- Let it simmer gently. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but an hour is even better!
Finally, always taste before serving! You can adjust with more spices, salt, or even a splash of vinegar for balance. Enjoy your chili!
Chipotle Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty chipotle chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 30 minutes to simmer for flavor development. However, for the best taste, let it simmer for up to 1 hour. So, in total, you will need about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them until softened, which should take about 5 minutes. The aroma will be delightful!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. This will really enhance the flavor of your chili.
3. Brown the Meat:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add in your ground beef (or ground turkey). Cook it, breaking apart the meat with a spoon until it’s browned and fully cooked—this should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, don’t forget to drain it!
4. Spice It Up:
It’s time to add flavor! Stir in the minced chipotle peppers, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture with the meat and veggies for another 1-2 minutes so all those spices release their goodness.
5. Combine All Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef (or vegetable) broth. Stir this all together until everything is well combined. You’re almost there!
6. Simmer Away:
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it partially and let it cook gently. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it simmer for up to an hour will deepen the flavors even more. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Taste Test:
Before serving, give your chili a taste! Adjust the seasoning with more salt or spices if you’d like. It should be full of flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot, and feel free to top it with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese based on your preference. Enjoy! Pair it with tortilla chips or cornbread for extra comfort!
This smoky and spicy chipotle chili is perfect for a cozy meal with a flavorful kick! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🍲✨
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, tempeh, or a combination of your favorite beans instead of meat.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’d like a milder chili, use only one chipotle pepper or leave them out entirely. You can also substitute smoked paprika for the chipotles for a smoky flavor without the heat. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What Are Some Great Toppings for This Chili?
Top your chili with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped fresh cilantro, or shredded cheese for added flavor. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or cornbread for a deliciously satisfying meal!
