Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe: A Hearty Twist on a Classic

Craving a soul-warming chili but not a fan of beans? Look no further! This Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe is your answer. Packed with ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of warm spices, it delivers all the rich flavors and satisfying texture of a traditional chili, minus the beans.

It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, and it’s sure to become a new favorite for bean-averse chili enthusiasts.

Ingredients for Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe

Creating this chili masterpiece requires a simple set of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Protein Powerhouse: 1 pound of ground beef. You can choose lean or ground chuck, depending on your preference.
• Veggie Brigade: 1 white onion, 1 green pepper, 1 jalapeño (optional, for a kick!), and 4 cloves of garlic, all finely chopped.
• Spice Symphony: 2 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 2 tablespoons of chili powder for a warm and smoky base.
• Seasoning Savvy: 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper to add depth of flavor.
• Tomato Trio: 6 ounces of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of cornmeal (a thickening secret!), and a 28-ounce can of chunky tomato puree (or diced tomatoes) for a rich and tangy base.
• Liquid Love: 2 cups of beef stock to add depth and body to the chili.

Required Equipment

To create this chili magic, you’ll need a Dutch oven or a large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid, a cooking spoon for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a knife and chopping board to prep the vegetables.

Required Time

The beauty of this recipe lies in its speed. Here’s a breakdown:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (chopping vegetables)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes (simmering the chili)
• Total Time: 50 minutes

So, grab your ingredients, gather your tools, and let’s embark on this easy and delicious chili adventure!

Step-by-Step Instructions For Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients prepped and your pot ready, let’s get cooking!

• Brown the Beef: Put some olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks for 5-6 minutes, until it’s nicely browned with no pink spots remaining.

• Sautéing the Aromatics: Drain any excess grease from the browned beef. Add the chopped onion, green pepper, jalapeño (if using), and garlic to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes, or until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

• Spice Up Your Life: Stir in the cumin, paprika, and chili powder, letting them toast for a minute to release their incredible aromas. This step will further enhance the depth of flavor in your chili.

• Building the Base: Once the beef is cooked add tomato paste and cornmeal to the pot, stirring well to combine. This might seem dry initially, but don’t worry! Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, to develop a rich color.

• Unleash the Tomatoes: Pour in the chunky tomato puree (or diced tomatoes) and the beef stock. Use the liquid to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
• The Simmering Symphony: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can simmer for longer for an even richer flavor, just keep an eye on the chili and add water if it seems to be drying out.

• Serve and Savor: Once the chili has reached your desired consistency, ladle it into bowls and get ready to enjoy!

Tips For Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe

A few simple tips can elevate your Easy No-Bean Chili to new heights:

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Aim for a light brown color on the ground beef to ensure a tender and juicy chili. Overcooked beef becomes dry and tough easily.
• Spice Customization: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Veggie Variations: For extra texture and nutrients, consider adding chopped carrots, celery, or corn during the initial sautéing step with the other vegetables.

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Serving Tips For Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe

A steaming bowl of chili deserves a delightful presentation and complementary accompaniments. Here are some ideas to elevate your no-bean chili experience:

• Classic Comfort: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend work well), and chopped fresh onions for a quintessential chili experience.
• The Perfect Partner: No chili is complete without a side of warm cornbread for scooping and soaking up every delicious drop. Try a classic cornbread recipe made from scratch or use a boxed mix for convenience.
• Bun Up!: Feeling adventurous? Transform leftover chili into a hearty chili dog by spooning it over toasted hot dog buns and topping it with your favorite chili fixings like shredded cheese, chopped onions, jalapenos, and a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Salad Sensation: Balance the richness of the chili with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement.
• Beverage Bliss: Pair your chili with your favorite beverage. Beer is a classic choice, with a light lager or amber ale complementing the flavors well. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or a fruity sangria are refreshing choices.

Nutrition In Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe

A serving of no-bean chili can be a surprisingly nutritious meal, offering a well-rounded combination of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of some key nutrients:

• Protein Power: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues and supporting overall health. A single serving of no-bean chili can provide around 30 grams of protein, depending on the recipe and ingredients used.
• Fiber Fighter: While it lacks the fiber content of its bean-filled counterparts, vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes contribute some dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• Iron Essential: Ground beef is a good source of iron, a mineral vital for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Iron deficiency can lead to restlessness and weakness.
• Vitamin Advantage: Tomatoes and other vegetables in the chili contribute essential vitamins like vitamin A (important for vision and immune function) and vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant).

Remember: While no-bean chili offers a good source of protein and iron, it’s generally lower in fiber compared to traditional bean chili. Consider pairing it with a whole-grain side dish like brown rice or quinoa for a more balanced and fiber-rich meal.

Conclusion

This Easy No-Bean Chili Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy night in or a fun get-together. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again.

So, fire up the stove, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a pot of pure deliciousness! Remember, a little planning, quality ingredients, and a touch of simmering magic will transform ground beef into a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.

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