Chili with stew meat is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul and fills your belly. Picture this: a hearty bowl of steaming chili, rich with spices, tender chunks of beef, and a medley of beans, simmering away, filling your kitchen with an aroma so inviting that even your dog will stop mid-bark to sniff the air. creamy white gravy comforting chicken stew.
Let’s be honest; nothing says “I care” quite like a pot of homemade chili bubbling on the stove. Whether it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon or a spontaneous weeknight dinner, this recipe is your go-to for cozy gatherings or solo couch marathons. vegan chili options Trust me; you’ll want to dive into this flavor explosion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chili is super easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup afterward
- The rich flavors develop beautifully as it simmers, creating a satisfying meal in a bowl
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dish on any table
- This recipe is versatile enough for casual nights or festive gatherings
Sharing this chili with friends led to laughter and compliments galore when they couldn’t get enough of the flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Stew Meat: Choose well-marbled cuts like chuck for maximum tenderness after slow cooking.
- Beans: A mix of kidney and black beans adds texture and protein; canned works great for convenience.
- Onion: Dice a large onion for sweetness; sauté until translucent to build flavor at the base.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brightens every bite; don’t skimp on this aromatic powerhouse.
- Tomato Sauce: Opt for a no-salt-added variety to control the overall saltiness in the dish.
- Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika): Use high-quality spices for depth; adjust heat levels based on preference. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Mexican Birria Tacos recipe.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; feel free to mix colors for visual appeal.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
- Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brings brightness and freshness to your serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling.
Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—to wake up those spices!
Browning the Meat: Toss in the stew meat, browning it on all sides. This step locks in flavor; be patient as you let it develop that beautiful crust.
Incorporating Tomato & Beans: Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth while adding drained beans. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Simmering Away!: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let it simmer for at least an hour—this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Finishing Touches: Lastly, stir in chopped bell peppers during the last 15 minutes of cooking for crunch. Season with salt and pepper according to taste before serving hot!
This delightful chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over rice if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy each bite filled with warmth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a cold day!
You Must Know
- Chili with stew meat is a heartwarming dish that brings everyone together
- The rich, spicy aroma fills your kitchen, tempting family and friends to gather around
- You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit everyone’s taste, making it a hit for all ages
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the stew meat to lock in flavors, then sauté onions and peppers before adding spices. perfect side for chili This method ensures you develop layers of flavor in your chili, making it irresistible.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap stew meat for ground beef or turkey if desired. You can also add beans, corn, or even some dark chocolate for an unexpected twist on flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure you brown the meat well for a deeper flavor profile
- Don’t rush adding spices; let them bloom for maximum impact
- Always taste throughout cooking to adjust seasoning as needed—every palate is different!
Cooking chili with stew meat reminds me of my first attempt when I accidentally used way too much cayenne pepper. My friends dubbed it “volcano chili,” but we all laughed and enjoyed it anyway! For more inspiration, check out this Hearty Lentil Stew recipe.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for chili?
Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work great.
How long should I let my chili simmer?
A good simmer of at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Yes! It freezes well and can be stored for up to three months in an airtight container.
Chili with Stew Meat
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Chili with stew meat is the quintessential comfort food that warms both heart and home. This hearty dish features tender beef, a mix of beans, and rich spices, simmered to perfection for a flavor explosion in every bite. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this chili is sure to impress and satisfy. Serve it hot with cornbread or rice for a complete meal that wraps you in warmth.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs stew meat (chuck)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent.
- Add garlic and spices; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown the stew meat on all sides to lock in flavors.
- Stir in tomato sauce and beef broth; add drained beans. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for at least one hour.
- Add bell peppers during the last 15 minutes; season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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