Classic Beef Chili

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, 80/20
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the browned beef from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced red bell pepper to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add the browned beef, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.