Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic favorite! Our Sweet and Sour Chili combines the rich flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with a surprising hint of sweetness that will leave you craving more. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that serves four, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe that balances savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a secret sweet and sour sauce that elevates every bite. Don’t miss out on the chance to impress your loved ones with this irresistible chili—read on to discover the simple steps to create your new favorite comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions and bell peppers into uniform small pieces.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking meat into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables start to soften and become translucent.
- Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables with spices.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and kidney beans with their liquid. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together brown sugar and vinegar until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour the brown sugar and vinegar mixture into the chili, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and bell peppers in advance. This will streamline the cooking process and help you focus on perfecting those flavors.
- Browning the Beef: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it's nicely browned. This step adds depth to the flavor of your chili, making it even more delicious.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Adjust the chili powder according to your taste preference!
- Simmering is Key: Allow the chili to simmer for the full 25-30 minutes. This not only melds the flavors beautifully but also thickens the chili for a heartier texture.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Serve your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh green onions. These add a wonderful contrast to the sweet and sour elements of the dish.
- Make it a Meal: Pair your Sweet and Sour Chili with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
