Proper Pub Grub Chili A Hearty Classic

Proper Pub Grub Chili A Hearty Classic

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 10-15g |
Proper Pub Grub Chili: A Hearty Classic
Fancy a proper comfort food chili that’ll warm you right through? Ever wondered why that pub grub chili recipe always hits the spot? Well, pull up a chair, because I'm about to share my version.
Trust me, this chili recipe chili is a winner, even if I do say so myself. It's got a depth of flavour you won't believe, a slight kick, and it’s easy as pie to make!
This ain't your average, run-of-the-mill chili. Think cozy pub vibes. I'm talking slow cooked beef chili , smoky chipotle pepper chili , and a sneaky bit of dark chocolate.
Dark chocolate, you say? Honestly, it adds a richness that'll knock your socks off. It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for a blustery day.
This hearty chili recipe is a dish that's meant to be shared, making it ideal for any gathering.
What Makes This Chili So Special?
This chili recipe is deceptively easy. I swear it's an easy chili recipe beginner can totally nail! Beyond the flavour, this recipe packs a punch of protein and fibre.
Perfect for a chili cornbread pairing , or loaded with all your favorite toppings. This is my go-to for those "I need something comforting now " moments.
All the Good Stuff You'll Need
Here's what you need to make this magic happen:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 2 lbs (900g) ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup or 150g)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped (approx. 2 cups or 300g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 2 tsp or 6g)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder (30 ml)
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (5 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste) (2.5 ml)
- 1 (28 ounce / 800g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth (240 ml)
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
- 1 ounce (28g) dark chocolate chili recipe (at least 70% cocoa), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Don't be shy with those spices they're what make this chili sing! Remember, the best chili toppings are totally up to you.
Cheddar, sour cream, green onions...go wild! And this version is far from the authentic chili recipe . Get these ingredients sorted.
Next up, we'll get cooking!
Right then, let's get cracking on this chili recipe chili, shall we? As Delia Smith would say, "Right, let's be 'avin you!" I always find myself saying that when I'm about to embark on some serious cooking.
We are going for that comfort food chili vibe. This isn't some fancy pants stuff; it's a real hearty chili recipe , perfect for a chilly night.
Ingredients & Equipment Breakdown
So, to make sure we've got everything we need for this pub grub chili recipe , let's break it down.
Honestly, having all your bits and bobs ready before you start is half the battle, innit?
Main Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Any decent olive oil will do.
- Ground beef: 2 lbs (900g). Aim for at least 80% lean. Anything less and it will be too greasy.
- Onion: 1 large , chopped (approx. 1 cup or 150g). Brown onions give a really nice flavour.
- Bell peppers: 2 , chopped (approx. 2 cups or 300g). Red, yellow, green mix it up!
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (approx. 2 tsp or 6g). The fresher, the better.
- Chili powder: 2 tablespoons (30 ml).
- Ground cumin: 1 tablespoon (15 ml).
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). This adds a lovely smoky note!
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) (or to taste). Be careful with this one; it can get hot quick!
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce / 800g) can.
- Tomato sauce: 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can.
- Kidney beans: 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can, rinsed and drained.
- Black beans: 1 (15 ounce / 425g) can, rinsed and drained.
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240 ml).
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: 1-2 , minced. Adjust to your spice preference. This Chipotle pepper chili is amazing.
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15 ml).
- Dark chocolate chili recipe : 1 ounce (28g) dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped. I know it sounds weird, but trust me!
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Seasoning Notes
For me, the key to a good authentic chili recipe is the spice blend. Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne.
Honestly, it's magic! A pinch of smoked paprika gives it that lovely depth. Don't be afraid to experiment! No smoked paprika? A dash of liquid smoke will do in a pinch.
It adds a depth you only get with slow cooked beef chili .
Equipment Needed
- Large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed pot. This is crucial for even cooking.
- Cutting board.
- Chef's knife.
- Measuring spoons and cups.
- Wooden spoon or spatula.
Honestly, the most essential bit of kit is a good, solid pot. You could even get away with a large saucepan if you're careful, but a Dutch oven is ideal for this easy chili recipe beginner .
Alright then, let's get cracking on this chili recipe chili , shall we? As Delia Smith would say, "Right, let's be 'avin you!" (into the kitchen, that is!).
We're aiming for a chili that's proper comforting, packed with flavour, and easy enough for even a novice cook to nail.
This isn't your fancy, Michelin starred chili, mind you. This is a real chili, the kind you crave on a chilly evening (pun intended!).
It’s a hearty chili recipe perfect for those pub grub chili recipe nights.
Proper Pub Grub Chili: A Hearty Classic
This chili recipe chili is a riff on the classic pub fare. We're talking deep, rich flavours, a satisfying kick of spice, and that undeniable comfort food chili vibe.
Think slow cooked beef chili , smoky chipotle pepper chili , and a hint of dark chocolate chili recipe for depth.
It's the perfect dish to warm you from the inside out, just like a roaring fire in a cozy pub.
This chili is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. Whether you're serving it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. It's an easy chili recipe beginner cooks can tackle.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place : Chop 1 large onion, 2 bell peppers, and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Rinse and drain 1 can each of kidney and black beans. Chop 1 ounce of dark chocolate. Measure out all your spices.
- Time saving tips: Pre-chop your veggies the day before. Honestly, it makes life so much easier. I sometimes chop them while watching Eastenders !
- Safety: Don't be a muppet! Use a sharp knife and pay attention.
Step-by-Step to Chili Perfection
- Brown the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add 2 lbs of ground beef and cook until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5- 7 minutes . Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute , stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, 1 cup beef broth, 1-2 minced chipotle peppers, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2- 3 hours , stirring occasionally. Longer simmering = deeper flavor!
- Add Dark Chocolate: Stir in 1 ounce of chopped dark chocolate during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir until melted.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with your favourite best chili toppings .
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Chili Game
- Toast your spices: I always toast the spices in the pot first. Makes a difference, I swear!
- Avoid these mistakes: Don't rush the simmering process! Low and slow is key. Also, don't forget the dark chocolate it adds a secret richness.
- Make ahead option: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it a day in advance and refrigerate. Perfect for potlucks or hearty chili recipe meal prep.
Enjoy your authentic chili recipe ! It pairs beautifully with some warm chili cornbread pairing .
Recipe Notes for Proper Pub Grub Chili
Right then, so you’re about to embark on this hearty chili recipe , eh? Fantastic! But before you dive in, let's chat about a few things that'll take your comfort food chili to the next level.
I like to call these "the secret sauce," even though there's no actual sauce involved! These tips will help you create an easy chili recipe beginner even you can master!
Serving Suggestions: Time to Plate!
Honestly, presentation matters. Think about it: you wouldn't serve a pint in a dirty glass, would you? So, let's make this pub grub chili recipe look smashing.
A ladle into a bowl works fine.
Garnish your best chili toppings : a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of cheese. A bit of fresh cilantro.
Simple as that, innit? If you fancy something extra, try some crispy tortilla strips for a bit of crunch.
Pair it with chili cornbread pairing ; a proper pint of dark beer is perfect. A crisp green salad balances the richness.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Right, so you've made a massive batch of this authentic chili recipe – good on ya! What to do with the leftovers?
Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container. It'll be good for up to 3-4 days. When you want to reheat, just give it a gentle simmer on the hob or a zap in the microwave.
Honestly, it tastes even better the next day.
Fancy freezing it? Go for it! Spoon it into freezer safe containers, leaving a bit of space at the top. It'll keep for up to 3 months.
Defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations: Making it Your Own
Sometimes, you fancy a bit of a change, don't you? No worries, this chili recipe chili is totally adaptable.
For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for some lentils or Quorn mince. You won't miss the meat, I promise! Want to cut down on carbs? Ditch the beans or add more veggies.
Feel free to change the bean variety to Pinto beans or great northern beans if kidney beans or black beans aren't your cup of tea.
If you're after something really special, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of cocoa powder. Trust me, it adds a lovely depth of flavour.
Want a Chipotle pepper chili ? Add some extra chipotle peppers.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Okay, let's be honest, this slow cooked beef chili isn't exactly a health food. But it's packed with goodness too!
You're getting a good dose of protein from the beef and beans. Lots of fiber. Plus, tomatoes are loaded with vitamins.
The dark chocolate adds antioxidants - that makes it a Dark chocolate chili recipe and that's healthy, right?
Each serving of this hearty chili recipe has about 450-550 calories. 35-45 grams of protein. 25-35 grams of fat. Keep this in mind when planning your meal.
So there you have it! Your pub grub chili recipe is good to go! Remember, cooking should be fun. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Get creative and enjoy! Good luck and happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this chili recipe chili suitable for freezing, and for how long?
Absolutely! This chili freezes beautifully. Once cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
It's like having a little taste of summer sunshine on a cold winter's night!
Can I make this chili recipe chili in a slow cooker or crock pot?
You bet! Slow cookers are perfect for chili. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and peppers as instructed in the recipe, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Just remember to stir it occasionally to prevent sticking, and get ready for a "proper" delicious meal!
I'm not a fan of spicy food. How can I reduce the heat in this chili recipe chili?
No worries, we can easily tone down the heat! The main culprits are the cayenne pepper and chipotle peppers. Start by omitting the cayenne pepper entirely and using only half of a minced chipotle pepper, or even leaving them out completely.
You can always add a pinch of cayenne or a few drops of hot sauce at the end if you want a little warmth, but remember, less is more. A little bit of cheese or sour cream will also mellow out any spice.
What are some good toppings to serve with this chili?
The sky's the limit! For a classic touch, go with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and some chopped green onions. Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant freshness, while a drizzle of hot sauce caters to those who like a kick.
Cornbread or tortilla chips are also fantastic for scooping up every last bit of that delicious chili. It’s your chili, top it how you want!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? What substitutions would you recommend?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap out the ground beef with a plant based alternative like TVP (textured vegetable protein) or a hearty vegetable like cubed butternut squash. You could also use a mix of lentils and chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it entirely meat free! This way, everyone can enjoy a warm bowl of chili on a cold night.