Homemade Beef Chili

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

1 cup beef broth

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

½ tsp black pepper

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp oregano

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Add tomatoes & seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix well.

4. Simmer: Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add beans: Stir in kidney beans (and black beans if using). Let it cook for another 10 minutes.

6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or spice levels as needed.

7. Serve: Enjoy hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced onions. Serve with cornbread or rice if desired.