Classic Chili Con Carne

Ingredients

• 1½ lb ground beef
• 1 yellow onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• 28 oz diced tomatoes
• 15 oz kidney beans
• 15 oz pinto beans
• 1½ cup beef broth
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp oregano
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (optional)

Steps

1. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney and pinto beans.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using), and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, and the drained kidney and pinto beans. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld. For a richer flavor, simmer longer, up to 3 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, if desired.