Classic Beef Chili

Serves 6 · via onceuponachef.com

This hearty, flavor-packed chili is my go-to for any occasion. It’s perfect for meal prep, feeds a crowd, and freezes like a dream—so go ahead and make extra!

Ingredients

• 85% lean ground beef
• salt
• baking soda
• vegetable oil
• yellow onion
• garlic
• red bell pepper
• ancho chile powder
• chipotle chile powder
• ground cumin
• dried oregano
• ground coriander
• smoked paprika
• cinnamon
• cornmeal
• beef broth
• crushed tomatoes
• tomato paste
• molasses
• fresh lime juice
• Cilantro

Method

1. In a large bowl, combine the beef, salt, baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of water. Using your hands, mix until evenly combined. Let the beef mixture sit on the counter for 20 minutes.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the onions, garlic, and red pepper; cook, stirring frequently, until softened, 4 to 6 minutes. Add the beef and increase the heat to high; cook, stirring with wooden spoon to break the meat into ¼-inch (6-mm) pieces, until the beef is browned, 10 to 12 minutes. The beef will release a lot of liquid—do not drain it; you'll skim the fat off at the end.
3. Add the ancho chile powder, chipotle chile powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and cinnamon (if using); cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes, until well combined and fragrant.
4. Stir in the cornmeal, broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and molasses (if using); bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours.
5. Skim any excess fat off the surface of the chili. There will be quite a bit; don't worry about getting all of it, as it adds flavor. Stir in the lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. For a thinner chili, you can add a bit of water. To thicken the chili, continue simmering, uncovered, until desired consistency is reached.