Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the 2 pounds of ground beef. Cook, stirring frequently to break it apart, until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
Drain any excess fat to prevent the chili from being greasy.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion, 1/2 cup diced celery, and 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper.
Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Combine Tomato Products:
Stir in 1 quart of tomato juice and 1 (29-ounce) can of tomato purée. Mix well to combine with the beef and vegetables.
4. Add Beans and Seasonings:
Incorporate 1 can each of drained red kidney beans and pinto beans.
Add 1/4 cup chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices and beans are evenly distributed.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For more developed flavors, allow it to simmer for up to 2 hours.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the chili before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, chili powder, or cayenne pepper based on your taste preference.
7. Serve:
Ladle the hot chili into bowls.
Garnish with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or additional diced bell peppers.
Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or crackers to complete the meal.
Tips for Perfect Chili
Choosing the Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess fat. For a lighter alternative, ground turkey can be used.
Adding Vegetables: Feel free to include extra vegetables like diced carrots or corn to enhance texture and flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder according to your heat preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if desired.
Make Ahead: This chili can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Wendy’s Chili is a timeless classic that captures the essence of comfort food. This homemade version brings the rich, savory flavors of the original to your kitchen, offering a hearty and satisfying meal. With its blend of spices, tender beef, and hearty beans, it’s perfect for warming up on a cool day or serving at a casual gathering. Enjoy the taste of Wendy’s at home with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
This detailed guide ensures you have everything you need to make a delicious, comforting bowl of chili. Enjoy your cooking!
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