**The Ultimate Slow Cooker Chili Recipe for the Season**
As the foliage changes and the weather turns cool, there’s nothing more soothing than a steaming bowl of chili. This ultimate slow cooker chili recipe is ideal for the season, blending robust ingredients and deep flavors to create a meal that will warm you thoroughly. Whether you’re hosting a game day event or simply desire a comforting dish, this chili is guaranteed to please.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds of ground beef (or turkey for a lighter choice)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cans (15 ounces each) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cans (15 ounces each) of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) of diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 2 tablespoons of chili powder
– 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for spiciness)
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for additional spiciness)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Meat:** In a sizable skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once heated, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
2. **Sauté Aromatics:** In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** Introduce the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. **Add Vegetables:** Stir in the chopped bell pepper and jalapeño (if using) to the slow cooker.
5. **Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the chili cook for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. If time is tight, you can set it to high and cook for 3-4 hours.
6. **Adjust Seasoning:** Sample the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to meet your taste.
7. **Serve:** After cooking, serve the chili piping hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
**Tips for the Perfect Chili:**
– **Meat Alternatives:** For a vegetarian variation, omit the meat and incorporate more beans or vegetables like zucchini or corn.
– **Spice Level:** Modify the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper and jalapeño.
– **Thickening:** If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid in the final hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
This ultimate slow cooker chili is not just simple to prepare but also highly adaptable. It’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for hectic weeknights or relaxed weekends. Savor the rich, savory tastes of this chili as you welcome the cozy season.