Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or cozy dinners, this chili is rich in flavor and packed with protein. The combination of spices adds depth, while the addition of chocolate gives it a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional recipes. Whether you’re serving it with cornbread or over rice, this dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The blend of spices and chocolate creates a rich, satisfying taste.
• Hearty & Filling: With both ground beef and chicken, this chili is packed with protein to keep you full.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal prep make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion; serve it on its own or as part of a larger meal.
• Leftover Friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To create Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering this hearty chili evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and precise chopping of vegetables and meat.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 6 tablespoons chili powder
• 4 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic minced

For the Meats

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 lb ground chicken

For the Liquids & Beans

• 4 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 2 (15 oz) cans pinto beans

For Flavoring

• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons masa harina
• 2 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate

How to Make Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Add Spices

Stir in salt, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground oregano, onion powder, and black pepper. Cook while stirring constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic.

Step 4: Brown the Meat

Add both ground beef and ground chicken. Increase heat to medium-high. Stir continuously to break up the meat into small pieces. Cook until fully browned.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in canned diced tomatoes with their juices along with pinto beans. Toss in bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer the Chili

Lower heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 90-120 minutes, stirring approximately every 15 minutes for even cooking.

Step 7: Final Touches

After simmering time is complete, remove bay leaves from the pot. Stir in masa harina and semi-sweet baking chocolate. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until well blended.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Mom’s Award-Winning Chili!

How to Serve Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Serving Mom’s Award-Winning Chili is all about enhancing the experience. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

Classic Presentation

• In a Bowl: Serve the chili hot in individual bowls topped with cheese and fresh cilantro for a classic touch.
• With Cornbread: Pair with warm cornbread muffins to soak up the delicious flavors.

Toppings Galore

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the spices.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top for extra flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Avocado Slices: Add slices of creamy avocado for a rich texture.

Chili Bar Experience

• DIY Toppings Station: Set up a toppings station with options like jalapeños, olives, and tortilla chips so guests can customize their bowls.
• Serve Over Rice: For a filling meal, serve the chili over cooked rice or quinoa.

How to Perfect Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Perfecting this chili recipe is easy with just a few tips. These pointers will help elevate your dish to award-winning status!

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavors more than pre-ground versions.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors and melds all ingredients beautifully.
• Adjust Heat Levels: Taste as you go and adjust the spice levels to suit your preference, adding more chili powder if desired.
• Incorporate Variety: Experiment with different beans or add vegetables like bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Add Chocolate Gradually: Introduce the chocolate little by little to achieve your preferred richness without overpowering other flavors.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chili rest for an hour or more before serving allows flavors to develop further.

Best Side Dishes for Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Complementing your chili with side dishes enhances its appeal. Here are some side options that pair perfectly with this savory dish.

1. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and fluffy muffins that are perfect for soaking up chili broth.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice mixed with herbs adds a fragrant touch alongside your chili.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide an excellent contrast to the smoothness of the chili.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a refreshing element that balances the heat of the chili.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy, cool counterpoint to the warm, spicy chili.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Gooey grilled cheese pairs perfectly for dipping into your bowl of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality meat or canned tomatoes can affect the flavor. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the beef and chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to cook the meat until it’s fully browned for a rich taste.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Skipping the long simmering time can result in a less developed flavor. Allow your chili to simmer for at least 90 minutes for optimal taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings as you cook can lead to an unbalanced dish. Always taste and tweak spices to suit your preference.
• Forgetting to Remove Bay Leaves: Leaving bay leaves in the chili when serving can be unpleasant. Remember to remove them before serving for a better dining experience.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe special?

This recipe stands out due to its rich blend of spices and high-quality meats, ensuring deep flavor in every bite.

Can I customize Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjust spice levels based on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers from Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

What is the best way to reheat Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe?

The stovetop method is preferred as it allows even heating without drying out the chili.

Conclusion

Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for family dinners or game day, this chili allows customization with various ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy its hearty warmth!