Living by Design…. A Trio of Hearty Chili Recipes to Warm Your Soul

When the temperature drops and a chill lingers in the air, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili to bring comfort and warmth. From classic beef to vibrant vegetarian options, chili recipes offer endless possibilities to satisfy every palate. In this post, we’re sharing three delightful chili recipes that are sure to become your go-to comfort food for chilly days.

1. Classic Beef and Bean Chili: A Timeless Favorite

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Mix well.
5. Let the chili simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

2. Smoky Vegetarian Chili: Bursting with Flavor

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and corn kernels. Sauté for a few minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Mix well.
4. Allow the chili to simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
6. Serve in bowls, topped with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.

3. White Chicken Chili: A Creamy Twist

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• Optional toppings: shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook cubed chicken until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stir in white beans, diced green chilies, and chicken broth.
5. Add cooked chicken back to the pot and let the chili simmer for about 20 minutes.
6. Before serving, stir in sour cream to create a creamy texture.
7. Serve with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.

No matter the occasion, these three chili recipes are bound to fill your kitchen with heartwarming aromas and delight your taste buds. From the comforting embrace of the Classic Beef and Bean Chili to the smoky richness of the Vegetarian Chili and the creamy indulgence of the White Chicken Chili, these recipes offer a diverse range of flavors to suit every preference. So, grab your apron and a ladle, and get ready to savor the comforting goodness of these hearty chili dishes.