Eddie’s Award Winning Chili
Introduction
Discover the Essence of Eddie’s Award-Winning Chili
Eddie’s Award-Winning Chili is a tried-and-true recipe that has captured hearts and taste buds. This robust chili is full of rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of spice – everything you could ask for in a bowl of chili. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a game day event, or simply craving comfort food, this dish will exceed expectations with its award-worthy taste.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Ingredients You’ll Need to Bring Eddie’s Chili to Life
ground beef
onion
garlic cloves, minced
canned diced tomatoes
tomato sauce
dark red kidney beans
light red kidney beans
green bell pepper
red bell pepper
chili powder
ground cumin
cayenne pepper
salt
sugar
water
Prep Time
Prepare Your Kitchen and Ingredients
The preparation for this chili recipe is simple yet engaging, providing plenty of time to enjoy the process. Prepping includes chopping onions and bell peppers, mincing garlic, and measuring out spices. All ingredients come together in perfect harmony, ensuring every bite carries the award-winning flavor Eddie intended.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Everything You Need to Know About the Cooking Process
Eddie’s chili offers a flexible balance between stovetop simmering and hands-on attention. Cooking involves browning the beef, sautéing vegetables, and letting the flavors meld together over the perfect amount of time. The total cooking time ensures that each ingredient shines while providing a rich, satisfying experience. Yielding a hearty serving, this recipe is excellent for large gatherings or leftovers to enjoy the next day.
Eddie’s Award-Winning Chili recipe is truly a celebration of bold and comforting flavors. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this dish promises to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until brown on all sides. This should take about 6–8 minutes. Transfer the browned beef to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In the same pot, add the chopped bacon. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside with the beef. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan, removing any excess.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onions, red bell peppers, and jalapeño peppers to the pot. Sauté over medium heat until soft and aromatic, about 8–10 minutes. Stir periodically to avoid burning.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently so the spices bloom and become fragrant.
Step 5: Combine with Meat
Return the cooked beef and bacon to the pot. Stir to combine the mixture thoroughly.
Step 6: Add Crushed Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
Step 7: Simmer the Chili
Cover the pot loosely and let the chili simmer gently over low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
Step 8: Add the Beans
After the chili has simmered for at least 1.5 hours, stir in the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans. Allow the chili to simmer for an additional 20–30 minutes.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat and let the chili rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro.
Notes
Note 1: Adjusting the Spice Level
You can adjust the heat level by modifying the amount of jalapeño peppers and cayenne pepper used. Add more or less depending on your preference.
Note 2: Making Ahead
This chili can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen and improve when allowed to sit overnight in the refrigerator.
Note 3: Freezing
The chili freezes well. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat over low heat for serving.
Note 4: Substituting Beans
If you don’t have kidney or pinto beans, feel free to use other beans such as black beans or cannellini beans.
Note 5: Serving Suggestions
This chili is delicious served over rice or with cornbread on the side. You can also serve it with tortilla chips or crusty bread for dipping.
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Cook Techniques
Building Layers of Flavor
This recipe is designed to create deep, rich flavors by building layers. Start by sautéing vegetables, move on to browning the meat, and then add spices, simmering ingredients, and liquids.
Browning the Meat
Browning the beef and sausage is essential to creating rich, flavorful chili. Make sure to cook the meat until it forms a nice brown crust to enhance the dish.
Deglazing the Pot
Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, deglaze the pot with a liquid such as beer or broth. This process lifts flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot into your chili.
Simmering for Flavor
The chili improves when it simmers over a low flame for an extended period. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
Using Fresh and Canned Ingredients
This recipe combines fresh vegetables like onions, peppers, and garlic with canned ingredients such as tomatoes and beans, ensuring convenience without sacrificing quality.
Adjusting Seasonings
The spices in this chili should be adjusted throughout the cooking process. Taste the chili often and make any necessary adjustments to the heat levels and spice balance.
FAQ
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili can be made a day or two ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level is moderate, but it can be adjusted to your preference. Add more chili powder or cayenne if you enjoy extra heat, or reduce for a milder chili.
Can I substitute the meat?
Yes, the recipe is flexible. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely. This chili freezes well and can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
What toppings pair well with this chili?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped onions, jalapeños, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime.
What type of beans should I use?
This recipe traditionally uses canned kidney beans and pinto beans, but you can experiment with black beans, cannellini beans, or your favorite variety.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
While canned tomatoes are convenient and full of flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Be sure to peel and dice them before adding.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave at medium power to warm it through. Add a splash of water or broth if the chili thickens too much.
Conclusion
Eddie’s Award-Winning Chili is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for any gathering or cozy meal. The combination of spices, tender meat, and balanced flavors creates a rich and hearty dish that wins over everyone. It’s a must-try recipe for chili enthusiasts and anyone looking to make an impressive, comforting meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Cornbread
Serve up some warm, golden cornbread on the side for a perfect complement to the chili’s spice and heartiness.
Stuffed Potatoes with Chili
Scoop out baked potatoes and stuff them with chili for a comforting, loaded meal.
Chili Nachos
Top tortilla chips with this chili, a generous sprinkle of cheese, and your favorite toppings for a snack or party dish.
Chili Mac
Mix chili with cooked macaroni to create a satisfying twist on a classic comfort food.
Taco Bowls
Add the chili to taco shells or bowls, along with rice, beans, and fresh toppings for a delicious taco-inspired meal.
Chili Dogs
Top grilled hot dogs with a ladle of chili and your favorite condiments for a classic, indulgent treat.
Chili and Rice
Serve the chili over steamed rice for a simpler, hearty meal that stretches the dish even further.
