Consumer Reports Chili Recipe Tips for the Best Flavor

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and satisfaction to your table, especially when it’s crafted from a trusted source like Consumer Reports. Known for their rigorous testing and reliable recommendations, Consumer Reports offers a chili recipe that balances bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and simple preparation.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or meal prepping for the week, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that delivers hearty satisfaction without fuss. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the Consumer Reports chili recipe, breaking down every step to help you create a savory, perfectly seasoned dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

From the perfect blend of spices to the ideal cooking method, this recipe takes chili-making to the next level. Plus, we’ll share tips, variations, and serving ideas to keep your chili experience exciting and tailored to your tastes.

Ready to warm up your kitchen with a pot of classic, flavorful chili? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Consumer Reports chili recipe stands out for its balanced flavor profile and easy-to-follow instructions. It combines tender beef, savory beans, and a rich tomato base, with spices that bring just the right amount of heat and smokiness.

The recipe is designed to be flexible, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spice levels.

Another reason to love this chili is its convenience. It uses common pantry staples and requires minimal prep time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Furthermore, the slow simmering method intensifies the flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. It’s a perfect recipe for beginners and seasoned cooks alike who want a dependable, tasty chili.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Colander (for rinsing beans)
• Can opener
• Ladle (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Drain any excess fat from the pot if desired to reduce greasiness.
6. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and onions evenly with the spices.
7. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
8. Add the drained kidney beans and black beans to the pot, mixing them in gently.
9. Bring the chili to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let it cook for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne for heat.
11. Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.

Tips & Variations

“For a richer flavor, try browning the ground beef in batches to ensure even caramelization.”

Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. For vegetarian or vegan chili, replace the meat with mushrooms, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

If you like a smoky taste, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a teaspoon of liquid smoke. For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes.

Alternatively, add a tablespoon of masa harina (corn flour) to thicken it up.

Want more heat? Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños early in the cooking process.

If you prefer milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne entirely.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chili is perfect on its own or served over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. For a classic touch, try it with warm cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.

It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal.

Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to add creaminess and richness. Fresh chopped cilantro or sliced green onions bring a fresh pop of color and flavor.

For a Tex-Mex twist, serve with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime.

Conclusion

The Consumer Reports chili recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to make a reliable, flavorful, and satisfying chili at home. Its straightforward preparation and flexible ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

The recipe’s balance of spices and wholesome components creates a dish that’s comforting and hearty, perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave a taste of home.

Whether you stick to the classic beef version or experiment with vegetarian alternatives, this chili promises to be a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes like Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, and Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping for more inspiration to elevate your cooking game.

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