When it comes to iconic comfort food, Ben’s Chili Bowl holds a special place in American culinary history. This Washington, D.C. landmark has been serving up its legendary chili since 1958, drawing locals, tourists, and even celebrities to savor its bold flavors. There’s something magical about the way this hearty dish brings people together.
We love how Ben’s chili perfectly balances smoky spices, rich tomato flavor, and just the right amount of heat. It’s no wonder it’s become a staple for everything from chili dogs to loaded fries. While the original recipe is a well-kept secret, we’ve crafted a version inspired by the classic, so we can all enjoy a taste of this beloved dish at home.
Bens Chili Bowl Recipe
Recreating the classic flavors of Ben’s Chili Bowl at home requires the right blend of spices, hearty ingredients, and a few simple steps. Follow this recipe to bring the essence of this iconic dish to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Here’s what we need to make this delicious chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional toppings: diced onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Steps to Prepare
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a flavorful pot of chili:
- Cook the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it down with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Incorporate the Spices
Add the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices. Toast the spices for 1 minute to enhance their flavor.
- Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Then, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and sugar.
- Simmer the Chili
Pour in the water or beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or spices if desired.
- Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot chili into bowls and top with your preferred garnishes: diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Spice Level Adjustments
Use the table below to tweak the chili’s heat according to your preference:
| Heat Level | Cayenne Pepper Amount |
|---|---|
| Mild | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Medium (default) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Hot | 1 teaspoon |
| Extra Spicy | 1 1/2 teaspoons or more |
This homemade take on Bens Chili Bowl’s legendary chili brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. Each step and ingredient adds depth and authenticity to this beloved dish.
Ingredients
To capture the essence of Ben’s Chili Bowl in your kitchen, we need a combination of aromatic spices, rich ingredients, and savory toppings. Here’s exactly what you’ll need divided into clear sections for ease.
For The Chili Base
- 1 lb ground beef, preferably 80% lean
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, optional for heat
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef stock or water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For The Chili Sauce
The sauce is key to the bold flavors that make this recipe special:
- 1/4 cup ketchup, for a subtle sweetness
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, to balance flavors
- 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes, adjust to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly cracked, to taste
Optional Toppings And Garnishes
To complete this iconic dish, personalize with your favorite toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese, sharp or mild
- Sour cream, a dollop for creaminess
- Chopped scallions or parsley, for freshness
- Hot sauce, for spice lovers
- Oyster crackers or crusty bread, for dipping
Use these ingredients to assemble a hearty dish that brings a bit of Ben’s Chili Bowl legacy into every bite.
Tools And Equipment
To recreate the flavors of Ben’s Chili Bowl in our kitchen, we need the right tools and equipment to ensure ease and efficiency. Below is a list of essential tools that will help us prepare this iconic dish and elevate the cooking experience.
Essential Tools
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottom Pot: Provides even heat distribution for sautéing and simmering the chili to perfection.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the chili, ensuring the ingredients don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: For rinsing the kidney beans to remove excess starch or any preservatives from canned beans.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Crucial for dicing onions, mincing garlic, and chopping optional toppings like scallions.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurement of the spices, liquids, and other components.
- Ladle: Makes serving the chili easy, preventing spills or messy plating.
- Can Opener: For opening canned ingredients like diced tomatoes and tomato paste quickly.
- Mixing Bowls: Useful for pre-measuring or combining starch-heavy ingredients like dry spices.
- Skillet (Optional): If browning the ground beef separately, a non-stick skillet will come in handy.
Optional Serving Tools
To serve the chili the way it’s enjoyed at Ben’s Chili Bowl, we’ll also need:
- Serving Bowls: Deep enough to fit a hearty portion of chili with toppings.
- Toppings Spoons: Small spoons or tongs for neatly applying sour cream, cheese, and other garnishes.
- Soup Plates or Trays: Perfect for holding oyster crackers or crusty bread on the side.
Table Format: Equipment Checklist
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dutch Oven | Simmering ingredients evenly and controlling heat. |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring to prevent sticking and ensure even mixing of flavors. |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Rinsing kidney beans for a cleaner taste. |
| Chef’s Knife & Board | Cutting aromatic vegetables and optional garnishes. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensuring precise addition of spices and liquids for balanced flavor. |
| Ladle | For serving large portions neatly. |
| Can Opener | Opening canned ingredients like tomatoes and beans. |
| Mixing Bowls | Prepping and staging seasonings for efficient cooking. |
| Skillet (Optional) | Browning ground beef if done separately. |
With these tools and equipment, we set ourselves up to recreate the rich, hearty, and nostalgic flavors of Ben’s Chili Bowl chili recipe right at home.
Instructions
Let’s bring the flavors of Ben’s Chili Bowl into our kitchen by following these easy-to-understand steps. Each part of the process builds flavor, so follow along precisely to achieve that iconic taste.
Prep The Ingredients
- Chop the aromatics: Dice 1 medium onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic.
- Rinse the beans: Using a fine mesh strainer, thoroughly rinse 1 cup of kidney beans under cold water. Drain and set aside.
- Measure seasonings:
- Spices:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Liquids and pastes:
- 1 cup beef stock
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained.
- Prepare optional toppings: If desired, shred cheddar cheese, chop scallions, and set aside sour cream, hot sauce, or oyster crackers.
Cook The Chili Base
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in the ground beef (1 lb) and break it apart using a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes, or until browned.
- Drain excess fat if necessary. Return to heat and mix in the smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes.
“Toasting the spices will enhance their aromas, giving the chili a deep, bold flavor.”
Prepare The Chili Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Whisk the mixture until smooth. This forms the sweet-and-savory signature sauce that is key to the chili’s overall taste.
Combine And Simmer
- Return to the Dutch oven containing the sautéed meat mixture. Add the prepared chili sauce, canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef stock, and tomato paste.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients. Ensure the mixture is evenly incorporated.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
| Simmering Tip | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Low heat | Enhances blending of flavors |
| Occasional stir | Prevents scorching at the bottom |
Final Adjustments And Tasting
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasonings:
- Add more salt or black pepper if needed.
- Increase heat with extra cayenne or hot sauce as per your preference.
- If the chili is too thick, stir in a small amount of beef stock, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Serve hot in deep bowls. Garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheddar, sour cream, or chopped scallions for a mouthwatering meal.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying Ben’s Chili Bowl-inspired chili, the possibilities are endless. Let us guide you through a few foolproof serving ideas that will enhance the delightful, smoky flavors of this hearty dish.
Classic Chili Bowls
Serve the chili in sturdy bowls for a comforting, straightforward presentation. Scoop a generous portion and top it with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped scallions. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat or a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. Pair it with oyster crackers or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every bit of the rich, savory broth.
Chili Dogs
Transform the chili into a crowd-pleasing treat by using it as a topping for plump, grilled hot dogs nestled in soft buns. For an authentic Ben’s Chili Bowl twist, layer the chili generously atop the hot dog and finish with freshly chopped onions, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of mustard. This option works perfectly for game days or casual gatherings.
Loaded Nachos
Elevate a tray of nachos with a hearty helping of Ben’s Chili-inspired chili. Spread tortilla chips on a large baking sheet, spoon the chili over the chips, and scatter a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then garnish with jalapeños, chopped tomatoes, cilantro, and guacamole for a Tex-Mex touch.
| Toppings Suggested for Loaded Nachos | Quantity (Optional) |
|---|---|
| Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey) | 1-2 cups |
| Pickled jalapeños | 2 tbsp |
| Diced tomatoes | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cilantro | 1 tbsp (chopped) |
| Guacamole | 1/3 cup |
Over Rice or Pasta
For a heartier option, ladle the chili over a bed of steamed white rice or buttered spaghetti noodles. The silky depth of the sauce intertwines beautifully with these bases, offering a stick-to-your-ribs meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly. Finish with your favorite toppings for added customization.
Chili Fries
Turn plain fries into a vibrant centerpiece with a dollop of our chili. Spread out crispy oven-baked fries, layer them with chili, and top with a mix of sharp cheddar cheese. Broil briefly to melt the cheese, then garnish with small dollops of sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh chives.
- Pro Tip: Sweet potato fries add a subtle sweetness that contrasts marvelously with the rich, smoky chili.
Tailored for Everyone
Offer a chili bar by setting out small bowls filled with a variety of toppings such as diced avocado, sliced green onions, grated cheeses, crushed tortilla chips, and hot sauces. Encourage guests to build their customized bowls or snacks for a fun, interactive dining experience.
Experiment with these serving styles to truly embrace the versatility of this Ben’s Chili Bowl-inspired recipe and relive the magic of D.C.’s legendary flavors right in your own home.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
To ensure Ben’s Chili Bowl-inspired recipe remains flavorful and satisfies cravings anytime, proper make-ahead and storage techniques are essential. Here’s how we can keep this hearty dish fresh and delicious:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the chili up to the simmering step. Once the chili has finished simmering and develops its rich flavors, let it cool to room temperature before storing.
- Storing pre-made chili sauce separately can help preserve its bold sweet-and-savory profile. Combine the sauce with the chili base just before reheating for optimal freshness.
Refrigeration Tips
- Store the fully cooled chili in an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing odors or losing moisture.
- The chili can be refrigerated for up to 4 days without compromising flavor or texture.
Freezing Instructions
- For longer storage, the chili freezes beautifully. Use heavy-duty freezer bags or freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.
- Portion the chili into individual servings for quicker thawing and reheating. Leave about an inch of space in the containers to allow for expansion.
- Label each container with the date for easy reference. Properly frozen chili lasts up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe bags/containers | Up to 3 months |
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop Reheating: Reheat the chili in a pot over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired temperature. Add a bit of beef stock or water if it thickens too much during storage.
- Microwave Reheating: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals, stirring between each session to ensure even heating and prevent hot spots.
Pro Tips for Storing and Reheating
- Avoid over-thickening during the initial cooking if planning to store. The chili will thicken naturally as it cools.
- Freshen up the dish after reheating by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or sprinkling some smoked paprika for a boost of flavor.
- Prep the toppings—like shredded cheese and chopped scallions—in advance and store them separately in small airtight containers for quick assembly when serving.
Conclusion
Recreating the magic of Ben’s Chili Bowl at home is more than just following a recipe—it’s about embracing the warmth and nostalgia that this iconic dish brings. With the right ingredients, tools, and a little patience, we can capture the bold, smoky flavors that have made this chili a beloved classic for decades.
From hearty bowls to creative serving ideas, this recipe offers endless possibilities to enjoy and share with family and friends. Let’s bring a taste of Washington, D.C., into our kitchens and savor every bite of this timeless comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ben’s Chili Bowl, and why is it famous?
Ben’s Chili Bowl is a legendary restaurant in Washington, D.C., known for its iconic chili since 1958. It’s famous for its flavorful blend of smoky spices, rich tomatoes, and a hint of heat, making it a beloved comfort food destination.
Can I make Ben’s Chili Bowl’s chili at home?
Yes! While the original recipe is a secret, the article provides a detailed, easy-to-follow version inspired by Ben’s chili so you can recreate its iconic flavors in your kitchen.
What ingredients do I need for homemade Ben’s-inspired chili?
The main ingredients include ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, tomato paste, and beef stock, along with a savory-sweet chili sauce made of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and spices.
What tools are essential for preparing the chili?
Basic tools like a large Dutch oven, a wooden spoon, measuring cups, and a fine mesh strainer are essential for ensuring smooth preparation and achieving the best results.
Can I adjust the chili’s spice level?
Absolutely! You can modify the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
What are some serving ideas for the chili?
The chili can be served in various ways, including classic chili bowls with cheese and sour cream, chili dogs, loaded nachos, or over rice, pasta, or fries. You can also create a chili bar for a customizable dining experience.
How long can I store leftover chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, freeze it in heavy-duty containers or bags for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the chili?
Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave for quicker results. Add a splash of water or stock and stir to refresh the flavors if needed.
Can I prepare the chili in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chili up to the simmering step, then store it in the fridge or freeze it. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes meal prep easier.
Are there vegetarian options for this chili?
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or diced vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.