This spicy chili is full of flavor, thanks to beans, tomatoes, and just the right kick of heat. Topped with creamy mash, it’s hearty and warm, perfect for chilly days!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love a bowl of chili that warms your soul? I like to add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra delight—it’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe calls for ground beef for richness. You can easily substitute it with ground turkey for a leaner option, or even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian choice!
Black Beans: Canned black beans add fiber and protein. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or pinto beans work great too. Just rinse and drain them well.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide a juicy base. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use them! Just chop about 3-4 medium tomatoes in place of the can.
Hot Peppers: Adjust the heat by choosing different types of peppers. If fresh red chili peppers feel too spicy, try jalapeños or even bell peppers for flavor without the heat.
Potatoes: For the mash, Yukon gold gives a buttery taste. If you’re in a pinch, russet potatoes also work well, but they may require more milk to achieve creaminess.
How Do I Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Mashed potatoes should be smooth and creamy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with peeled and chopped potatoes. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes well to remove excess water, preventing watery mash.
- Add butter and warm milk to the drained potatoes, then mash until creamy. For extra smoothness, a potato ricer works wonders!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also mix in garlic powder or sour cream for tanginess, if you like!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Spicy Chili?
For a flavorful chili, cooking it slowly allows flavors to develop. Follow these steps:
- Start by sautéing onions and bell peppers until soft. This builds the base flavor.
- Add fresh garlic and chili peppers just before the meat to keep their freshness.
- Cook the ground meat until browned; this adds depth to the flavor.
- Mix in spices and tomato paste, heating them briefly to enhance their flavors.
- Simmer with diced tomatoes and beans for at least 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together!
By following these tips, you’ll have a fantastic chili and comforting mash that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Spicy Chili with Mash
Ingredients:
For the Chili:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter option)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1-2 fresh red chili peppers, sliced (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (optional to adjust thickness)
For the Mash:
- 2 large potatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g), peeled and chopped
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (warm)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Garnish:
- Sliced green onions (scallions)
- Thin slices of fresh red chili peppers
- Optional: sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder on mash
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30-35 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a delicious meal in under an hour, perfect for those cozy evenings or when you need a filling dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mash:
Start by placing the chopped potatoes into a pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil and let them cook until tender—this should take about 15 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the water, and mash the potatoes with butter and warm milk until they’re creamy. Season with a touch of salt and pepper, then keep them warm while you make the chili.
2. Prepare the Chili:
In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced chili peppers, cooking for just one more minute until fragrant.
Now, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s fully browned. Sprinkle in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, chili powder, oregano, along with salt and pepper. Mix everything together well.
Next, add the diced tomatoes and black beans, stirring everything to combine. If you want a thicker chili, add the broth as well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This is key for letting those flavors meld together—stir occasionally!
3. Assemble the Dish:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to serve! You can either ladle the spicy chili alongside or on top of the creamy mashed potatoes in a bowl. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mash so it melts slightly. For a fresh touch, garnish with sliced green onions and fresh red chili rings. If you want a bit more color and flavor, feel free to dust some smoked paprika or chili powder on the mash.
4. Serve Hot:
Enjoy your delicious, comforting combination of spicy chili with smooth, buttery mash! It’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or satisfying those hearty food cravings.
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This recipe is a delightful way to experience rich flavors while enjoying a comforting classic. Enjoy every bite! 🍽️
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lighter alternative to beef. It will still provide delicious flavors, just make sure to monitor cooking times as it may brown faster than beef.
What If I Don’t Have Black Beans?
No problem! If you don’t have black beans, you can substitute them with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Just make sure they’re drained and rinsed before adding them to the chili.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Sure! To make this chili vegetarian, simply omit the meat and use a mix of beans (like black beans and kidney beans) and add some chopped vegetables like zucchini or corn for bulk and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for cooking.
How to Store Leftover Chili and Mash?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chili on the stove or in the microwave. For the mash, add a splash of milk when reheating to help regain its creamy texture.