Homemade Chili Beans the Southern Way | Chili Recipe for Vlogmas Day 2

Are you ready to warm up your kitchen with a rich, hearty pot of homemade chili beans? This classic Southern chili recipe is perfect for cold winter nights and cozy gatherings. Packed with flavor and spice, it’s not just any chili; it’s a vibrant dish that’s bound to become a favorite at your table. Let’s dive into how to make this easy chili beans recipe that everyone will love!

A Chili Tradition

Chili is a beloved dish across the United States, but did you know there’s a distinctly Southern charm to chili beans? Often served during tailgate parties, holiday gatherings, and family dinners, this hearty meal symbolizes comfort and camaraderie. The story goes that chili is perfect for serving large crowds, and it’s versatile enough to accommodate various diets. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish to customize with your favorite toppings!

Ingredients

To create the best chili beans recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (for a healthier option)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and jalapeños

Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up this easy chili beans recipe.

1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, over medium heat, add your ground beef (or turkey). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pot, cooking until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well!

4. Season the Chili: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

5. Simmer: Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Adjust for Taste: After simmering, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer spicier chili, add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños.

7. Serve Hot: Ladle the chili into bowls and offer toppings on the side so everyone can customize their bowl!

Tips/Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms or extra beans for a delicious vegetarian option.

• Kick up the Heat: If you love heat, add some diced habanero or serrano peppers to the mix along with the onions.

• Cooking Time: For deeper flavor, let the chili simmer longer—up to 2 hours is ideal if you have the time!

• Slow Cooker Option: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Just brown the meat beforehand, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

• Serve with Cornbread: Nothing pairs better with chili than a warm slice of cornbread—perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce!

Conclusion

Homemade chili beans the Southern way is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to each bite. With its aromatic spices and rich ingredients, this chili recipe is an excellent addition to your winter meal rotation. Try it for your next gathering, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking, and enjoy your Vlogmas festivities!