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Prepping for game day or seeking warmth on a cool day? Give my chili recipe a whirl—it’s everything a classic beef chili should be and more.
This chili recipe is my tried-and-true favorite—to me, it’s the very best version of a classic chili. Hearty and brimming with deep flavors, it delivers just the right spicy kick to chase away the chill. Whether paired with fluffy cornbread, spooned over rice, or served with crunchy tortilla chips for scooping, this chili never fails to please. It’s perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or just a comforting meal on a cold day. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch to stash some away for another day.
“We’re Texans and love your chili! Try this! It is so well flavored without being hot. The hint of cinnamon and molasses balance out the spice. ❤️ Thank you for another great recipe!”
For the best and most tender chili, I have a few tricks. First, mash the beef with a bit of baking soda and let it sit while you prep the other ingredients. This raises the pH of the beef, which locks in moisture and accelerates browning, resulting in a more flavorful, tender chili. Second, opt for 85% lean ground beef. The fat enriches the meat, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor and texture. And don’t stress about the fat—post-cooking, it’s easy to skim off any excess. Wondering about beans? I don’t add them to my chili since my family tends to eat around them, but feel free to add a can of your favorite drained beans during the last half hour of cooking. Finally, for those who like a sweeter chili, try adding a touch of molasses and cinnamon for a delicious twist.
Chili Recipe Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by combining the ground beef, salt, baking soda, and water in a large bowl.
Using your hands, mix until evenly combined. Let the beef mixture sit for 20 minutes. The baking soda raises the pH of the meat, helping to lock in moisture and accelerate browning. (I borrowed this tenderizing trick from Cook’s Illustrated; it works like a charm.)
Meanwhile, chop the veggies.
I use a food processor to speed this up, but it’s fineto chop by hand too.
In a large pot over medium heat, heat the oil and add the onions, garlic, and red pepper.
Cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes.
Add the beef and increase the heat to high.
Cook, stirring with wooden spoon to break up the meat, until the beef is browned, 10 to 12 minutes.
The beef will releasea lot of fat and liquid — do not drain it; you’ll skim the fat off at the end. Add the ancho chili powder, chipotle chili powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using).
Cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, until well combined and fragrant. Add the cornmeal, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and molasses (if using).
Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours. Skim any excess fat off of the surface of the chili — there will be quite a bit.
Stir in the lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Serve with accompaniments and enjoy!
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The Ultimate Chili Recipe
Metric Cup Measures
By Jenn Segal
Prepping for game day or seeking warmth on a cool day? Give my chili recipe a whirl—it’s everything a classic beef chili should be and more.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 30 Minutes
Cook Time: 2 Hours 30 Minutes
Total Time: 3 Hours
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds 85% lean ground beef
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion (or 2 small), minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, minced
- 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for a sweeter chili)
- 2 tablespoons cornmeal
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon molasses, such as Grandma's Original (optional, for a sweeter chili)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, from 1 lime
For Serving (optional)
- Cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, cheese, scallions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the beef, salt, baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of water. Using your hands, mix until evenly combined. Let the beef mixture sit on the counter for 20 minutes.
- In a large pot over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the onions, garlic, and red pepper; cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the beef and increase the heat to high; cook, stirring with wooden spoon to break the meat into ¼-inch pieces, until the beef is browned, 10 to 12 minutes. (The beef will release a lot of liquid -- do not drain it; you'll skim the fat off at the end.)
- Add the ancho chili powder, chipotle chili powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using); cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, until well combined and fragrant.
- Stir in the cornmeal, broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and molasses (if using); bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours.
- Skim any excess fat off the surface of the chili. (There will be quite a bit; don't worry about getting all of it, as it adds flavor.) Stir in the lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. For a thinner chili, you can add a bit of water. To thicken the chili, continue simmering, uncovered, until desired consistency is reached.
- Make Ahead: Cool slightly, and then refrigerate uncovered until cold. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly Instructions: The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Before serving, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.
Pair with
Nutrition Information
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- Per serving (6 servings)
- Calories: 655
- Fat: 44 g
- Saturated fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 39 g
- Sodium: 1711 mg
- Cholesterol: 134 mg
Nutritional Data Disclaimer
This website is written and produced for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and the nutritional data on this site has not been evaluated or approved by a nutritionist or the Food and Drug Administration. Nutritional information is offered as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. The data is calculated through an online nutritional calculator, Edamam.com. Although I do my best to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures should be considered estimates only. Varying factors such as product types or brands purchased, natural fluctuations in fresh produce, and the way ingredients are processed change the effective nutritional information in any given recipe. Furthermore, different online calculators provide different results depending on their own nutrition fact sources and algorithms. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator.
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Comments
Excellent chili! Everything I make from this website is excellent! I added 2 cans of kidney beans because that is chili to me and there was also so much liquid that the beans filled the pot and it was perfect. Will definetly be making this again.
- — Mary Ann on December 10, 2023
- Reply
Fantastic chili! When I need a good recipe for something, I always come and see what Jen has to offer. So many of her recipes are on repeat in my house. THIS is sooooo good. I only added 2 tsp. of the chipotle chili powder, because the one I have is scorching hot. I just added an extra tsp. of the adobo instead. I added a jalapeno, sans seeds, to the onion/pepper mixture. I also used Muir Glen Fire Roasted tomatoes, smoked paprika, molasses and cinnamon (it doesn’t make the chili sweet, just gives it dimension of flavor). It has such a wonderful smokiness. Lastly, I added two cans of drained & rinsed kidney beans and one can of cannelini, because I like beans in my chili.
- — Michele on December 7, 2023
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I made the chili for a small crowd tonight and it was a hit with everyone! I doubled the recipe (cooked the meat and veggies in two separate pots first and combined it) and added two cans of kidney beans, drained and rinsed, and one can of white beans, drained and rinsed, because I didn’t have enough meat. I’ll definitely make this again in the future.
- — Miranda on December 7, 2023
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Wow. This is a proper chili. Worth every step, every spice. Add the cinnamon and molasses. It won’t be too sweet but it does add a depth of flavor. This chili packs some heat that I turned down with sour cream in my own bowl, though everyone else said it wasn’t too hot and I was the wimp. I only added one can of beans. Two would probably work better. I actually made this in a cast-iron pan and transferred to crockpot to cook on low for 3 hours. I love ground beef to be really tender. Having said all this, I don’t like chili in general. I made this recipe for my family and it is so flippin good, I will gladly make it again.
- — Joanna on December 5, 2023
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Made this tonight for dinner and it was absolutely incredible! The depth of flavor was unparalleled and now I understand how others placed or won using this recipe in a cook-off. Another winner!
- — Jane Chinnaswamy on December 3, 2023
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Hi !!
Wondering if I can substitute brown sugar for molasses. How much? Or not at all?
Linda- — Linda K on November 28, 2023
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Yes, that would work. You can also just omit the molasses.
- — Jenn on November 28, 2023
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Made this for a gathering at the weekend and it went down a storm, absolutely delicious and easy to make. Everyone loved it!
- — Yvonne D on November 27, 2023
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I made this very good. Easy to make. Great flavors.
- — Tom Manns on November 27, 2023
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I made this chili this afternoon and it was terrible. It had a very weird “fluffy” consistency to it and no “bite” when chewing it. I don’t know if I made a mistake or if the recipe is at fault. I suspect the cause may be the baking soda on the meat browning step. Perhaps I used too much. Aside from the consistency, the flavor can best be described as “off” and didn’t taste like a traditional chili. We will not be making this recipe again.
- — Jeff on November 26, 2023
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This makes an excellent chili. I especially appreciate the tip about baking soda in the ground beef. Because chili is a forgiving, highly personalizable (is that a word), I passed on the cinnamon, and added two cans of black beans packed with with jalapeños, 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, and a couple diced (and deseeded) jalapeños.
- — Robert Ashton on November 22, 2023
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Hi what kind of cornmeal do i need im in the uk,so not used to using/buying cornmeal..Theres stone ground medium grind or course on amazon ? Thanks
- — Katie on November 20, 2023
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Hi Katie, I’d get the stone ground or medium grind. Hope you enjoy!
- — Jenn on November 21, 2023
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I’ve been to 2 grocery stores and can’t find ancho chili. Any suggestions on what to substitute? I don’t want the chili too spicy as I’m hoping my young grandchildren will eat it. Apologies if this question has already been asked and answered. I love your recipes and cookbooks as I find them so dependable!
- — Linda S on November 13, 2023
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Hi Linda, sorry you had a hard time finding it. You can just replace it with regular chili powder. Hope everyone enjoys!
- — Jenn on November 14, 2023
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I made this chili following the recipe for a halftime chili cook off. I did add chili beans. It took 2nd out of 12 entries! I was very pleased with how the chili tasted. It was the best I’ve ever had. Thanks for the inspiration.
- — Maureen on November 13, 2023
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I made this chili for dinner last night, and it is truly fantastic!
For those asking if you can make it in the slow cooker, you absolutely can because I did and it turned out great.
I sauteed the vegetables, meat and spices per the recipe instructions, then added all of that along with everything else into my slow cooker. It ended up cooking on low for about 10 hours, though I think it would’ve been good to go after about 7-8 hours on low. I did end up doing the last half hour on high with the lid off to reduce some of the liquid, so probably next time I’d cut the broth back by at least half a cup or so.
But it was delicious! I made it mostly as written, except I used three full pounds of ground beef instead of 2.5 lbs then scaled up the seasonings a tiny bit to go along with that. I also did add one 15oz can of drained and rinsed small red beans, which we loved. I did not use the optional molasses or cinnamon, and we were very happy with the resultant spice level and flavor profile. I would say that if you’re sensitive to spicy heat, I would probably find a mild chili powder and use that in place of the ancho and chipotle chili powders rather than to omit chili powder entirely.
This one’s a winner! We’re having it again later this week as a topping for baked potatoes, and I’m already excited for that dinner, too. Thanks, Jenn!
- — Heather on November 13, 2023
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Made this for a family gathering today and everyone said it was a winner. Left off the Chipotle chili powder as it was expensive. Only had a bit leftover for my lunch tomorrow. Added some canned pintos at the end. Thanks for another great recipe.
- — Stacey Goldfarb on November 12, 2023
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Hi, Jen!
I’ve made this easy chili several times as is. Sometimes I substitute Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies for the tomatoes. This recipe has become my standby for easy chili! It never fails to please.
As an aside, your Texas Beef Chili is my favorite of all the chilis I’ve made in over 50 years of cooking!!
Thanks again!- — Marvin Fairbank on November 8, 2023
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Best chili ever. Followed the directions exactly including a couple ingredients I would never imagined in chili. Delicious.
- — TL on November 6, 2023
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We absolutely loved your chili recipe. We will definitely make it again. I used Rotel Hot diced tomatoes with Habaneros for added spice. Thank you again.
- — Dan Brooks on November 6, 2023
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I made your chili again yesterday from a printed copy of the recipe I had. When I tried to look it up on your site using the name on it — Best Ground Beef Chili — I found that you’d changed the name! Now it’s The Ultimate Chili Recipe! Anyway it came out fantastic – even better than the last time I made it! I did mix the ground beef with two links of hot Italian sausage. I’m sure that helped. Thanks for the recipe! It’s great!
- — Vicky on November 5, 2023
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Made this today for 1/2 time Bears game tomorrow . Turned out FANTASTIC!! Instead of chipotle powder I used the sauce from a can of chipotle peppers. Everyone keeps coming in to ‘sample’ it!
Thanks for posting the recipe👍👍- — Francine Guerrieri on November 4, 2023
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Absolutely fantastic chili! Best ever!! Nights here in Moab, Utah, are now below freezing so what better way to warm a chilly night than with chili! My husband is not a fan of beans in his chili (as I are most assuredly are) so, I served his chili on rice and I simply added chili beans to my bowl. I did add the cinnamon and molasses as you suggested – great flavor add. A hearty squeeze of lime (also your recommendation) really makes this chili shine and pique with flavor. As I love to utilize my dried summer herbs in soups and stews, I topped our bowls with cilantro and chives. So good, I’ll make it again and again! Thanks!
- — Bonnie Bloeser on November 3, 2023
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It was a hit. I had 2 ears of fresh corn which I cut off of the cob and added, otherwise I would have made it as written.
Cooked it on Wednesday, cooled it in the fridge, removed 3/4 of the fat from the top and served it on Thursday. Added some Queso Fresco cheese and sour cream to each bowl. So good.
I will likely be making it again as the weather gets colder.
Thanks Jenn- — Helene on November 2, 2023
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LOVE this recipe!!
Made it and it tasted sooooo good!
I made one minor change to it, hope you don’t mind….
I call it Jim’s Best Chili recipe. 🙂
Whatcha think?? Pretty good name? Fits it well, i think!
Thank you Jenn!- — Jim Lampe on November 2, 2023
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🤣 Works for me!
- — Jenn on November 3, 2023
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Could you use substitute beef chunks instead of ground beef? My husband asked!
- — Dawn Kennedy on November 2, 2023
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Hi Dawn, if you’d like to use chunks of meat, I’d recommend this recipe instead. Hope you enjoy if you make it!
- — Jenn on November 2, 2023
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Have you ever adapted your lovely recipe for the crock pot?
- — Wendy Farkas on November 2, 2023
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Hi Wendy, I haven’t but I think it will work. I’d love to hear how it turns out if you try it!
- — Jenn on November 2, 2023
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Hi Jenn: I was excited to make this today to take to our Grandkids.
We ended up having to go to a Celebration of Life service so I put it in my
Crock pot on low. We were gone for 4 hours. I have been cooling it and will
put it in the refrigerator to cool overnight and make it easier to take the fat
off. I did add a can of drained kidney beans at the end I don’t know if the longer
time made it runnier but maybe it will thicken as it cools? If it doesn’t
thicken should I add more cornmeal? Thanks Jenn- — Janess Landell on November 4, 2023
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Hi Janess, No need to add more cornmeal. When you reheat it, just continue simmering it, uncovered, until you reach your desired consistency. Hope the grandkids enjoy!
- — Jenn on November 5, 2023
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I can’t wait to make this! Oddly, I love chili but I’m not a fan of beans. My boyfriend loves beans but he is not a fan of chili. So, this should work for the both of us! =)
- — Dyana on October 31, 2023
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Another keeper. We aren’t a fan of a lot of smoky flavor, so I opted for regular paprika and chili powder. Other than that no changes. My 9 year old proclaimed it the best chili of all time:)
- — Caitlin on October 31, 2023
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What’s the cornmeal for?
- — Hannah on October 29, 2023
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Hi Hannah, it helps to thicken the chili and adds an another layer of flavor.
- — Jenn on October 30, 2023
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Can I use turkey? I know it might not be as rich, but that is ok.
- — Cathleen I Christian on October 29, 2023
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Hi Cathleen, For turkey chili, I highly recommend this recipe.
- — Jenn on October 30, 2023
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Why do you add Cornmeal?
- — Ann on October 29, 2023
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Hi Ann, It acts as a thickener and also adds nice flavor.
- — Jenn on October 29, 2023
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I made this for a casual get-together and everyone loved it and asked for the recipe! It is now my go to chili recipe 😊
- — Elizabeth Gasque on October 29, 2023
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This recipe is amazing!! I added 1 can each of dark red kidney beans, black beans and corn. I also added the cinnamon and molasses. The flavor is incredible! I took it to a chili cook off and won!!
- — Michelle on October 24, 2023
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I’m a fan of beans in chili. Thank you!
- — Heather Lampman on October 29, 2023
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At first, when I tasted it, I thought it was okay. Then I kept discovering more depth, then I tried it the next day, and it’s fantastic! I didn’t even have the lime juice and still found it bright and tasty.
- — Lori O on October 7, 2023
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I made this last night before the Bears/Commanders game and it turned out great! I had some jalapeños ready to add because I didn’t think it would have very much heat when I saw the recipe. Boy was I wrong! I didn’t have to add a thing! I only had 80% lean ground beef, but it was still very good. I may try adding some andouille sausage in the future, but this recipe really doesn’t need it! Thank you for creating this recipe! 😊
- — Chris on October 6, 2023
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Great chili recipe! Loved the flavors … just the right amount of heat and sweet! Thanks for another perfect recipe!
- — Sharon on September 27, 2023
- Reply
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As a seasoned culinary enthusiast with a passion for creating and perfecting recipes, I've delved deep into the world of chili preparation, honing my skills to deliver a tried-and-true classic beef chili recipe. My expertise extends beyond mere culinary enjoyment to a scientific understanding of how different ingredients and techniques can elevate a dish to extraordinary heights.
Let's dissect the key concepts and components of this exceptional chili recipe:
1. Preparation Techniques:
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Baking Soda Tenderization: The inclusion of baking soda in the ground beef is a brilliant technique borrowed from Cook’s Illustrated. This step raises the pH of the meat, locking in moisture and accelerating browning, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chili.
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Optimal Ground Beef: Choosing 85% lean ground beef enriches the meat, enhancing both flavor and texture. The fat content adds richness, and any excess fat can be easily skimmed off post-cooking.
2. Flavor Enhancements:
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Spice Blend: The spice blend includes ancho chili powder, chipotle chili powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and optionally, cinnamon. This combination imparts a complex and deep flavor profile to the chili.
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Molasses and Cinnamon: For those seeking a sweeter chili, the addition of molasses and cinnamon provides a delightful twist, balancing out the spice and adding depth.
3. Ingredient Choices:
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Vegetable Base: Onions, garlic, and red pepper form the aromatic foundation, contributing layers of flavor to the chili.
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Cornmeal: Acting as a thickening agent, cornmeal not only adds texture but also enhances the overall flavor of the chili.
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Acidity: Lime juice is introduced at the end to brighten the flavors, and its acidity helps balance the richness of the dish.
4. Cooking Process:
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Browning and Cooking: The process of browning the beef, sautéing vegetables, and then slow-cooking with a well-balanced spice blend allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious and robust chili.
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Simmering: The two-hour simmering period ensures the chili reaches its full potential, allowing the flavors to intensify and meld.
5. Customization:
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Bean Consideration: While the recipe omits beans, it encourages customization by suggesting the addition of drained beans during the last half hour of cooking.
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Adaptable Serving: The versatility of serving options, such as pairing with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, makes this chili suitable for various occasions.
6. Testimonials:
- The positive feedback from individuals who have tried and loved the chili, along with their personal adaptations, attests to the recipe's excellence and adaptability.
In conclusion, this chili recipe represents the pinnacle of culinary craftsmanship, blending science and art to create a flavorful, hearty, and satisfying dish.
