This hearty Slow Cooker Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for dinner on a chilly evening. Packed with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, it offers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Simply prepare the ingredients, let them simmer in the slow cooker, and enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of chili.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
¾ cup diced onion
¾ cup diced celery
¾ cup diced green bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (10.75 ounce) cans tomato puree
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans with liquid
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans with liquid
½ tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon dried basil
¾ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅛ teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Directions

Brown the Beef: Place the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat and cook until evenly browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the grease.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned beef to a slow cooker. Add the diced onion, celery, green bell pepper, minced garlic, tomato puree, kidney beans (both with liquid and drained), and cannellini beans.
Season: Stir in the chili powder, salt, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, ground black pepper, and hot pepper sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the Low setting for 8 hours.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the chili hot. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 273
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 34mg
Sodium: 975mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 11g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 19g

The Appeal of Slow Cooker Chili

Utilizing a slow cooker for chili offers several advantages. The low and steady heat facilitates the breakdown of tougher meat cuts, resulting in tender, succulent pieces. This prolonged cooking process also enables spices and seasonings to fully infuse the dish, creating a rich and harmonious flavor profile. Moreover, the convenience of assembling ingredients and allowing them to cook unattended makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals seeking a satisfying homemade meal.

The Cultural Significance of Chili

Chili is more than just a meal; it holds cultural and historical significance in various regions. In the United States, chili cook-offs are a popular tradition, especially in Texas, where chili is considered the state dish. These competitions bring together home cooks and professional chefs who showcase their unique takes on this beloved dish. In Mexico, chili has deep roots in traditional cuisine, with variations like “chile con carne” and regional stews that incorporate indigenous spices and ingredients. Across the globe, different cultures have adapted chili to fit their palates, using local spices, meats, and cooking techniques to create unique versions of this dish. This widespread popularity of chili demonstrates how food can transcend borders, bringing people together over a shared love for rich, flavorful, and comforting meals. Whether served at a family dinner, a community gathering, or a chili competition, this dish remains a symbol of warmth and togetherness.

Regional Variations of Chili

Chili’s versatility is showcased in its numerous regional adaptations across the United States:

Texas-Style Chili: Often referred to as “bowl of red,” this version is traditionally made without beans or tomatoes. It focuses on chunks of beef simmered with red chili peppers and spices, emphasizing a robust, meaty flavor.
Cincinnati Chili: Distinctive for its unique blend of spices, including cinnamon, cloves, and cocoa, this chili is typically served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese, onions, and beans, following a specific “way” system.
White Chili: A departure from the traditional red chili, this variation uses poultry, such as chicken or turkey, and replaces red tomatoes with green chilies and white beans, resulting in a milder yet flavorful dish.
Vegetarian Chili: Catering to plant-based diets, this version substitutes meat with a variety of beans, lentils, and vegetables, offering a hearty and nutritious alternative.

Key Components of Slow Cooker Chili

A well-crafted slow cooker chili balances several essential elements:

Protein: While ground beef is common, alternatives like turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins can be used to suit dietary preferences.
Legumes: Beans such as kidney, black, or pinto add texture and nutritional value. Some traditional recipes, particularly Texas-style, omit beans entirely.
Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and bell peppers form the flavor base, providing depth and complexity.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, oregano, and paprika are standard, with variations incorporating additional spices like cinnamon or cocoa for unique flavor profiles.
Liquids: Tomato puree, broth, or beer contribute to the stew’s consistency and enhance flavor.

Tips for Enhancing Your Slow Cooker Chili

To elevate your chili:

Browning the Meat: Searing the meat before adding it to the slow cooker develops a deeper flavor through the Maillard reaction.
Layering Spices: Adding spices at different stages of cooking can create a more nuanced flavor profile.
Incorporating Umami: Ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or a small amount of dark chocolate can enhance the savory depth of the chili.
Adjusting Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add a bit of broth or water. If too thin, remove the lid in the final cooking hours to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions

Chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways:

Classic Bowl: Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Over Grains: Pour over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a hearty meal.
As a Topping: Use as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or hot dogs to add a flavorful twist.
With Bread: Pair with cornbread, crusty rolls, or tortillas to complement the stew.

Health Considerations

Chili can be tailored to meet various dietary needs:

Lowering Fat Content: Opt for lean meats or plant-based proteins to reduce saturated fat.
Reducing Sodium: Use low-sodium broths and canned goods, and be mindful of added salt.
Increasing Fiber: Incorporate a variety of beans and vegetables to boost fiber content.

Conclusion

Slow cooker chili is a testament to the adaptability and enduring appeal of this classic dish. Its rich history and regional diversity offer endless possibilities for customization, allowing cooks to experiment with flavors and ingredients to create their perfect bowl. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a gathering, slow cooker chili provides a comforting and satisfying meal that brings people together.

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