Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that brings the heartwarming flavors of traditional Amish cooking right to your dinner table! This isn't just another chili recipe - it's a generations-old secret that combines the perfect balance of savory beef, hearty beans, and a touch of unexpected sweetness that will have your family begging for seconds. Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight meal into an extraordinary comfort food experience that connects you to the rich, rustic traditions of American farmhouse cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef if desired, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Add drained black beans and kidney beans to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, mixing well with the meat and beans.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the mixture, which will add a subtle sweetness characteristic of Amish-style cooking.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer the chili for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to further develop.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Choose a high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content (80/20 blend) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Layering Flavors: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic - this builds a deep flavor foundation for your chili.
- Slow and Low is the Way to Go: The key to authentic Amish-style chili is patient simmering. Don't rush the cooking process - let those flavors meld together slowly.
- Brown Sugar Magic: The secret ingredient that sets this chili apart is the brown sugar. Start with the recommended amount, but feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
- Make it Ahead: This chili actually tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen overnight.
- Customization is Key: Feel free to top your chili with classic garnishes like shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped cilantro to make it your own.
- Freezer Friendly: This recipe freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and save some for a quick and delicious future meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
