Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped bell peppers, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste:
- Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and ground cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the spices become fragrant.
4. Add Liquids and Beans:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, black beans, corn kernels, and beef or vegetable broth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer the Chili:
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños if desired.
This chili is perfect on its own or served with a side of cornbread or over rice. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty chili con carne!
