Hearty Fiesta Chili: A Colorful Blend of Pinto Beans, Peppers, and Rotel

Hearty Fiesta Chili: A Colorful Blend of Pinto Beans, Peppers, and Rotel

Warm up your taste buds and satisfy your hunger with this Hearty Fiesta Chili, a colorful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This chili is not only packed with protein-rich pinto beans but also features a vibrant mix of bell peppers and a kick of spice from Rotel tomatoes. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, a cozy family dinner, or just craving something comforting, this chili will hit the spot.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Dice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic. This will help the cooking process go smoothly.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat, if needed.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
   • Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are well combined with the beef and vegetables.
5. Incorporate the Beans and Tomatoes:
   • Add the drained pinto beans, Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.
6. Simmer the Chili:
   • Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, stirring to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
   • After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish:
   • Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
9. Optional Sides:
   • This chili pairs well with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Tips:

• Make It Ahead: This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
• Customize It: Feel free to customize the chili by adding other ingredients such as corn, black beans, or your favorite chili toppings like sliced jalapeños or avocado.
• Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot or let the chili simmer uncovered for a longer period.

This Hearty Fiesta Chili is a delightful combination of tender beef, creamy beans, and colorful peppers, all simmered together in a savory, spiced tomato base. It’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. Enjoy!