Homemade Classic Chili

A delicious, sweet, tangy and warm cup of Chili for cold day is just about as delightful as it gets. Tis’ the season to cozy up by the fire and make comfort food that makes tummies happy and families gather around! Chili is a favorite around here, especially for my husband who grew up in Texas. Cornbread on the side is also a must! I have spent a couple years back in the day perfecting my made from scratch Chili recipe. I was tired of using store bought packets that lacked good taste. It took time, patience and testing of many flavors to make this recipe just right!

So many topping options, pick your favorites and lay them out for all to dress their chili with!

Between the onion, garlic, and delicious spices of chili, oregano and cumin, the aroma throughout the house has everyone in a joyful mood! My passion in life is being a mom and wife and making the home the most desirable place to be. Growing up we always had homemade meals with soft music and candles lit for the most hygge ambiance possible. There is nothing that can replace that nostalgia. It is my hope that when my kids grow up they have nostalgic memories of a cozy home and good food to carry that on to their children.

Cornbread is a must have on the side of chili. We even put some on top of the chili. For quick cornbread we use the Trader Joe’s box mix. I do not make my own because the Trader Joe’s cornbread is SO darn good I don’t think any can get better. Just the right amount of sweetness too! YUM!

Masa Harina is a golden corn flour we use in Chili. If you do not have this on hand flour does a wonderful job. You could even sub corn starch!

Recipe:

Ingredients

2lbs Ground Beef

3 cloves garlic minced

1 small yellow/sweet onion chopped

1 15oz can tomato sauce

1 15oz can Pinto beans, rinsed & drained

2 Tablespoons brown sugar (I like dark brown sugar but either works)

Spices:

1 1/2 Tablespoons Chili powder

1 teaspoon ground Cumin

1 teaspoon Oregano flakes

2 teaspoons salt

2 Tablespoons Masa Harina (Sub flour or corn starch if desired)

(Add water, 1/2c at a time as needed in the chili)

Directions

Place ground beef, onion & garlic in a large pot, and cook over medium heat until beef is browned
drain off the excess fat
Add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt to the ground beef mixture. Cover.
Place masa harina into a bowl. Add 1/2c water and stir until well mixed. Add masa mixture to the chili.
Add the rinsed and drained pinto beans and the brown sugar.
Add water, 1/2c at a time, as needed. Simmer for 30 minutes give or take, stirring occasionally. May cover if desired.

SERVE & ENJOY!

Optional Garnishes