HUGE POT of Chilli At Home

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork, or substitute with ground turkey/chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 3 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeño slices, tortilla chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the meat:
   • Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine the ingredients:
   • Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices become fragrant.
   • Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
   • Add the kidney beans and black beans. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer the chili:
   • Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
   • The longer you let it simmer, the more the flavors will develop. If you have time, let it simmer for 2-3 hours.
5. Adjust seasoning:
   • Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings. Enjoy with a side of cornbread or over rice if desired.