Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that's steeped in New Mexican tradition and political history! This chili recipe, straight from the kitchen of Senator Joseph Montoya, is not just a meal—it's a bold statement of flavor that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Southwest. Packed with robust ground beef, aromatic spices, and a perfect blend of ingredients, this chili is guaranteed to become your new go-to comfort food that brings a touch of political warmth to your dinner table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: New Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven 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.
- Sprinkle chili powder over the meat and stir thoroughly to coat the beef and onion mixture.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add drained pinto beans to the pot and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer the chili for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content for extra flavor and richness.
- Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic—this builds a deep flavor foundation for the chili.
- Use fresh chili powder if possible, as it provides a more vibrant and complex taste.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent beans and meat from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For an even more authentic New Mexican touch, consider adding a small amount of green or red chile for extra heat.
- Let the chili rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 396kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 60mg
