Get ready to spice up your culinary adventures with a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition! This "Good Ole Traditional Chili Cookoff in Argentina" will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of South America. Bursting with the savory goodness of ground beef, hearty kidney beans, and a delightful blend of spices, this chili is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. With just 15 minutes of prep and an hour and a half of simmering, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delicious world of Argentinian chili!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Argentinian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans kidney beans, drained
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnishes: cheese, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients on your kitchen counter. This includes 1 lb of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 chopped bell pepper, 2 cans of drained kidney beans, 2 tbsp of chili powder, 1 tsp of cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Don't forget your garnishes: cheese, sour cream, and cilantro.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper softens.
- Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pot and add the ground beef. Cook the beef for about 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through.
- Once the beef is browned, mix in the sautéed vegetables. Then, add the drained kidney beans to the pot.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that the spices coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Pour in enough water or beef broth to cover the mixture, usually around 2 cups. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit more water or broth.
- After 1 hour, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired.
- Once the chili is ready, serve it hot in bowls. Offer garnishes on the side, such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro for guests to customize their servings.
- Enjoy your Good Ole Traditional Chili Cookoff in Argentina with crusty bread or tortilla chips on the side!
Tips
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Organic or grass-fed beef can elevate the dish significantly.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder chili, start with less and add more to taste.
- Let it Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the more the flavors will meld together. If you have time, let it cook for up to 2 hours for an even richer taste.
- Experiment with Beans: While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for a unique twist.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the garnishes! Shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro not only add flavor but also a beautiful presentation.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your chili with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or even a side of rice to soak up all that deliciousness.
- Make it Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day! Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy meal later.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg