Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Michigan's rich cooking tradition? This Michigan Bell Pioneer Chili is not just a recipe—it's a delicious piece of history that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Packed with robust flavors and a perfect blend of hearty ingredients, this chili is the ultimate comfort food that promises to become an instant family favorite. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you feeling like a true Midwest cooking champion!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions, mincing garlic, and dicing bell peppers before beginning cooking.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef, leaving a small amount for flavor and sautéing vegetables.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute spices evenly.
- Pour in drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine all ingredients completely.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for approximately 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to enhance flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Use fresh ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for the most flavorful results. This ensures your chili remains juicy and rich.
- Spice Layering: Toast your spices briefly in the pot before adding liquids to enhance their depth and complexity. This technique releases essential oils and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
- Low and Slow: The key to an exceptional chili is patient cooking. Simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, harmonious taste.
- Prep in Advance: This chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time and letting the flavors develop overnight in the refrigerator.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños if you like extra heat.
- Garnish Generously: Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced green onions to add extra texture and flavor.
- Storage Tip: This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 70mg
