It’s party time! February events include the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 1 and Super Bowl LX on Feb. 8. Why not invite your family and friends over for a party featuring chili with all the fixins? A “build your own” topping bar makes it fun and uniquely delicious for each guest.
Makes 8 servings
Ingredients:
For Chili:
- 1 large, sweet onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes or diced tomatoes
- 2 (28 ounce) cans tomato sauce or tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend or oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (15 ounce) can each kidney beans and cannellini beans, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn bread or pretzel balls
For DIY Topping Bar:
- Here are some suggested ideas for a creative, visually interesting, and delicious chili topping bar: chopped tomatoes; chopped avocado; peeled, seeded and chopped cucumbers; corn; chopped red peppers; diced onion; sliced scallions; sliced radishes; pitted black olives; sautéed mushrooms; microgreens; pickled jalapeños; lime wedges; shredded cheddar cheese; crumbled queso fresco cheese; sour cream; whole milk yogurt; salsa; hot sauce; cooked pasta shells; tortilla chips.
Directions:
- In a large pot add olive oil and chopped onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add ground beef. Cook and stir until beef is browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Discard any excess grease.
- Stir canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, Italian seasoning, and sugar into the beef mixture. Add the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Place toppings in separate bowls. Serve with corn bread or pretzel balls.
Tips:
- Chili tastes best made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld. Refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, then transfer to a crock pot to keep warm.