Chipotle Chili

It's a longstanding tradition when snow (of any amount!) is in the forecast, chili is on the menu. And with low temperatures forecast in the teens, a chili with some HEAT is needed!

One of the best ways to have a delicious dish, is to add flavors from the beginning. In this case, chipotle is our base flavor, so we will begin with this: http://kingsoliveoil.com/product/chipotle/

 

2 T. Chipotle Olive Oil 

1 large yellow onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 - 4 chipotle peppers in adobe sauce, chopped

1 t. salt

1 t. black pepper

2 T. chili powder

1 t. ground cumin

1/2 t. ground coriander

1 T. Mexican oregano

1 (28 oz.) can whole tomatoes

2 lbs. ground chuck

1 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

3 cans beef consomme

1 can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 can chili beans 

2 T. Worcestershire sauce  

1 T. chopped cilantro (optional)

In a large Dutch oven (I used a 7 1/2 quart), heat chipotle olive oil over medium high heat. Add onions.

Let the onions cooks for 4 - 5 minutes and then add the green peppers and, stirring occasionally, let them cook for 3 - 4 minutes.

Now it's time to add the garlic and chipotle peppers. By the time you allow this mixture to cook for about 4 minutes, your kitchen will smell amazing.

Next add salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, and Mexican oregano. Stir to combine thoroughly and cook 3 - 4 minutes to let the spices heat through and become aromatic.

Lower the heat to medium and add the ground chuck, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the ground chuck is browned through.

Add the whole tomatoes, along with the juice, breaking them up with the wooden spoon. 

Add the diced tomatoes and beef consomme and increase heat to bring to a boil.

It's time to add the beans and Worcestershire sauce! Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for several hours, stirring occasionally so the chili won't stick.

A few minutes before serving, add the chopped cilantro, if using, and taste. Add salt and/or pepper if needed.

Top with your favorite toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, etc. Serve with crackers or tortilla chips.