Craig Claiborne Chili Recipe Tips for Authentic Flavor

Originally posted on June 12, 2021 @ 7:58 am

When it comes to classic chili recipes, few names carry as much weight as Craig Claiborne, the legendary food editor who revolutionized American cooking with his innovative and approachable recipes. His chili recipe is a perfect example of hearty, flavorful comfort food that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet special enough to impress guests.

With a rich blend of spices, tender meat, and savory beans, this chili brings warmth and bold taste to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chili lover or trying it for the first time, Craig Claiborne’s recipe is a fantastic way to experience authentic, old-school American chili with a modern twist.

This recipe is not just about ingredients; it’s about technique and balance. The slow simmering allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a thick, satisfying chili that’s both comforting and exciting.

If you love exploring traditional recipes with a reliable foundation, this chili offers an excellent way to elevate your cooking repertoire. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings, making it a versatile favorite year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Craig Claiborne’s chili is beloved for its perfect harmony of spices and texture. It’s not overly complicated, yet it yields a deep, rich flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

The recipe balances smoky, spicy, and savory notes without overpowering the palate. Another reason to love it is its flexibility — you can easily adjust the heat level or swap beans and meats to suit your preferences.

This chili is a great crowd-pleaser for potlucks, game days, or cozy family dinners. It also reheats beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.

If you’re looking to master a chili recipe that stands the test of time, Craig Claiborne’s classic version is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (preferably chuck)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Heat the oil: Place your heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to warm up.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Brown the meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
5. Add tomatoes and paste: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and stir in the tomato paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
6. Add broth and beans: Pour in the beef broth and add the drained kidney beans. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Simmer the chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The chili will thicken and the flavors will deepen.
8. Season to taste: Once the chili has thickened, taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
9. Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeño slices.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a dash of smoked paprika.”

Make it vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and use extra beans or lentils instead. You can boost the umami with a splash of soy sauce or smoked paprika.

Adjust the heat: If you prefer milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, add fresh chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.

Use different beans: While kidney beans are traditional, black beans or pinto beans make great alternatives and add interesting textures.

Slow cooker option: After browning the meat and sautéing onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for an effortless meal.

Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Prepare a day ahead and reheat gently on the stove.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings. For a classic experience, serve it over brown rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Cornbread or tortilla chips also complement the spicy richness beautifully.

For a lighter option, serve the chili over a fresh salad or with steamed vegetables. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for added creaminess and texture.

Explore more hearty and wholesome meal ideas like our Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for quick and satisfying dishes.

Conclusion

Craig Claiborne’s chili recipe is a timeless dish that brings together bold flavors, comforting textures, and simple ingredients to create a meal that’s perfect any day of the year. Its rich, layered taste is a testament to the power of slow cooking and thoughtful seasoning.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or just craving a warm bowl of hearty chili, this recipe offers a reliable and delicious solution.

By mastering this classic chili, you not only honor a culinary legend but also gain a versatile recipe that can be customized and adapted to your own taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spice levels or bean varieties to make it truly your own.

For more inspiration on wholesome, flavorful meals, check out our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide and other fantastic recipes on the blog.

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