Chili is a versatile dish in which you can add, substitute, mix and pretty much create anything you can imagine or have on hand. Basic chili includes a combination of meat, either turkey, beef or pork, and a variety of beans, either black, pinto, chickpea or kidney. Focusing on red kidney beans rather than white beans or any other bean does not change any ingredient or cooking method. Cooking chili with red kidney beans results in a thick, hearty chili perfect to eat out of the bowl or over a hot dog or plate of fries.
Instructions
1. Prepare your beans. You can either use dry kidney beans or beans in a can. The result is virtually the same, however with the canned beans there is extra salt added, so make sure to take care and not add too much additional salt. If using dry beans, soak the beans in a bowl of water overnight; you will need to soak for eight to 12 hours to remove dangerous toxins. (Canned kidney beans are safe for immediate use.) Strain, rinse, and place dry beans in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered for about 1 ½ to two hours. Drain the beans and set aside.
2. Cook your meat. You do not have to use meat; if you prefer to make vegetarian chili, increase the amount of beans or add other beans such as black or white beans. If using meat, brown in a large skillet over medium heat, cook on each side and use a wooden spoon or spatula to turn and break into pieces. It should be crumbly when done, about 15 minutes cooking time. Tilt the pan to drain off excess grease. Set aside.
3. Chop the onions, bell pepper, chili pepper and garlic. In a large chili pot, heat a 1 to 2 tbsp. olive oil and lightly sauté the vegetables and garlic. Reduce heat to simmer, and add the already cooked meat, beans, 1 can tomatoes, 1 can tomato paste, 1 cup water, 2 tbsp. chili powder, 1 tsp. cumin, ½ tsp. cayenne pepper, 1 tsp. oregano, 1 tsp. salt and 1 tsp. black pepper. Allow to simmer for at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve. If the chili seems too thick, add extra water to make it more soup like. Also taste test to adjust spice level.
4. Ladle into bowls and top with grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives, fried tortilla strips or bread rolls. If you're feeling adventurous with your chili, scoop it into a hot dog or ladle on top of fries. Chili is an American comfort food; dress it up any way you like.
Tags: kidney beans, already cooked, beans either, beans other, heat simmer, Reduce heat, simmer