Using a family recipe, I created my own version of a homemade chili that can easily be made in a crockpot. This slow cooker method has become my new favorite because the cooking process allows the flavors to integrate thoroughly during the six hour cook-time. My homemade chili is thick, rich and fulfilling, perfect for a cool night at home.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of ground beef (you could also use ground turkey, ground chicken, OR a mixture of ground beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño (diced)
- 2 (16 oz) cans of tomato sauce
- 1 (16 oz) can of diced tomatoes
- 1 (16 oz) can of light red kidney beans
- 1 (16oz) can of dark red kidney beans
- 1 cup of water (or 1/2 water, 1/2 chicken broth)
- Chili seasoning:
- 1 tbs chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- Toppings options:
- Greek yogurt, diced jalapeño, shredded cheese, hot sauce, scallions
Instructions
- In a large pan, brown the meat with the onions, peppers, and chili seasoning.
- Drain the grease from the pan, and put the mixture into the crockpot.
- Add the remaining ingredients.
- Add a touch more of each spice + herbs.
- If you want, add a dash of red wine to increase the complexity of the flavors.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until reduced and noticeably thickened (you may want to stir it every hour or so).
This is the Cuisinart Crockpot that I use and I LOVE it! Easy to program and cooks evenly: click here to check it out!
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