We’ve always been fans of Hunt’s Chili Recipe, a hearty classic that warms us up on cool evenings with its rich, flavorful blend of spices and tomatoes. Originating from American Southwestern traditions, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings families together around the table.
What makes our take special is how easy it is to whip up using everyday ingredients, delivering bold tastes without the fuss. Whether you’re a chili novice or a seasoned cook, we’ll guide you through creating this comforting favorite that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
In our Hunt’s Chili Recipe, we carefully select fresh, high-quality ingredients to capture the authentic Southwestern flavors that make this dish a comforting favorite. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep specifics noted for precision and ease.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced – Start with this as our aromatic base to build layers of flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Adds a bold, pungent depth right after the onion for enhanced sautéing.
- Ground beef: 1 pound – Use lean for a hearty, juicy texture that browns quickly in the pan.
- Bell pepper: 1 large, chopped – Incorporate next for a sweet, crunchy contrast that softens during cooking.
- Hunt’s Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) – Provides a rich, tangy tomato base that infuses the chili with vibrant, sun-ripened essence.
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed – Add these for a creamy, hearty element that absorbs the spices.
- Chili powder: 2 tablespoons – Our key spice for that warm, smoky heat that defines the recipe.
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon – Brings an earthy, nutty note to balance the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon each, to taste – Season as needed for a perfectly balanced finish.
- Beef broth: 1 cup – Used to adjust consistency, offering a savory boost to the overall depth.
This combination ensures a robust, aromatic chili that’s simple yet packed with sensory appeal—from the sizzle of browning meat to the hearty simmer of spices and beans.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Hunt’s Chili Recipe with ease and precision, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment. These items help us handle the ingredients efficiently, from chopping and measuring to simmering and serving, ensuring a smooth cooking process that enhances the dish’s rich, comforting flavors.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend gathering the following tools, organized by their use in the recipe sequence. This setup allows us to transition seamlessly from prepping ingredients like diced onion and minced garlic to cooking the ground beef and spices.
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Ideal for even heat distribution, this is our primary cooking vessel. It holds at least 4-6 quarts to accommodate the ground beef, vegetables, and liquids without overflow, promoting a hearty simmer for that authentic Southwestern depth.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife (at least 8 inches long) paired with a sturdy cutting board is crucial for precisely dicing onions, mincing garlic, and chopping bell peppers. We prioritize safety and efficiency here to achieve uniform pieces that cook evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors in our Hunt’s Chili. Use a set of dry measuring cups for ingredients like chili powder and ground cumin, and measuring spoons for smaller amounts such as salt and black pepper.
- Can Opener: For opening cans of Hunt’s diced tomatoes and kidney beans, a reliable manual can opener ensures quick access without mess, keeping our workflow uninterrupted.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: This versatile stirring tool is perfect for mixing and scraping the pot as we combine the ground beef with spices and broth, preventing sticking and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Ladle: Once our chili is ready, a ladle makes serving straightforward, helping us dish out portions that capture the recipe’s vibrant aromas and textures.
For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of tool sizes and their roles in the recipe:
| Tool | Recommended Size | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch Oven/Pot | 4-6 quarts | Cooking and simmering the chili |
| Chef’s Knife | 8 inches | Chopping and mincing ingredients |
| Measuring Cups | 1 cup set | Measuring dry spices accurately |
| Measuring Spoons | 1 tablespoon set | Dosing smaller seasonings |
With these tools in hand, we’re fully equipped to execute the Hunt’s Chili Recipe steps flawlessly, building on our ingredient preparation for a delicious, foolproof outcome.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to prepare Hunt’s Chili Recipe with ease and precision. We’ll break it down into simple, sequential actions to ensure a hearty, flavorful result that captures the essence of Southwestern comfort.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to enhance their flavors and textures. Begin by dicing the onion into small, uniform pieces for even cooking—aim for about 1 cup to add a sweet, pungent base. Next, mince the garlic cloves finely; we recommend 3 cloves to release their aromatic essence without overwhelming the dish.
Chop the bell pepper into ½-inch pieces—use one medium pepper for a crisp, colorful addition that provides a slight crunch. Drain and rinse the kidney beans from a 15-ounce can to remove excess sodium, ensuring a cleaner taste in our chili. Measure out the spices accurately: 2 tablespoons of chili powder for robust heat, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin for earthy depth, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to balance the flavors.
Finally, open the can of Hunt’s diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces) and have the 1 cup of beef broth ready at hand. This prep work sets the stage for a seamless cooking process, allowing the ingredients to meld into a symphony of tastes and aromas.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll now cook the chili in our large Dutch oven, building layers of flavor step by step. First, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and release a fragrant, savory scent that fills the kitchen.
Add the 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns for about 5 minutes; this creates a rich, meaty foundation. Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until it softens, adding a vibrant pop of color and sweetness.
Next, incorporate the Hunt’s diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper; stir well to combine, ensuring the spices coat everything evenly for a bold, harmonious blend. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the chili will thicken and develop a deep, smoky aroma with a comforting warmth that makes it perfect for any gathering.
| Pot Size | Simmer Time (minutes) | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| Small (2-4 quarts) | 15-20 | Quicker cook, slightly thinner consistency |
| Large (5+ quarts) | 20-25 | Optimal for full flavor development and thicker texture |
Make-Ahead Instructions
We find that preparing Hunt’s Chili in advance not only saves time on busy days but also lets the spices and ingredients meld for a richer, more robust flavor profile. Follow these simple steps to make your chili ahead of schedule and ensure it remains deliciously fresh.
Preparing the Chili in Advance
To get started, we recommend completing the full cooking process up to the simmering stage as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. Once the chili reaches the desired consistency:
- Cool the chili quickly: Transfer the cooked chili to a shallow container and let it cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This prevents bacterial growth and maintains quality.
- Portion for convenience: Divide the chili into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. For family meals, we suggest portions of 2–4 servings each to minimize waste.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the hearty texture and aromatic essence of Hunt’s Chili. Here’s a breakdown of options:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 4 days | Store in the fridge at 40°F or below; stir before reheating to redistribute flavors. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe containers; label with the date to track freshness and avoid freezer burn. |
Reheating for Optimal Results
When you’re ready to enjoy your make-ahead Hunt’s Chili, we advise gentle reheating to retain its comforting warmth and vibrant taste:
- From the fridge: Place the desired portion in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth if needed to adjust consistency—aim for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat as above. For quicker options, use a microwave on medium power in 2-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
By following these methods, we ensure your Hunt’s Chili stays as flavorful and satisfying as the day you made it, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Hunt’s Chili recipe as it’s become a go-to favorite in our kitchen. It’s all about that perfect blend of flavors that warms you up and brings folks together.
This dish shows how simple ingredients can create something truly special. We’re sure you’ll make it your own and enjoy every comforting bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hunt’s Chili Recipe?
Hunt’s Chili Recipe is a classic Southwestern dish known for its rich, comforting flavors, perfect for cool evenings. It draws from American traditions, using simple ingredients for an easy-to-make meal that’s great for beginners or pros. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it features hearty elements like ground beef, beans, and spices for a satisfying, aromatic result.
What ingredients are needed for Hunt’s Chili?
The key ingredients include diced onion, minced garlic, lean ground beef, chopped bell pepper, Hunt’s diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and beef broth. These fresh, high-quality items ensure authentic Southwestern flavors. Prepare them in order for a robust, simple dish that’s packed with taste.
What tools are required to make Hunt’s Chili?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for even cooking, a chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a can opener for canned goods, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and a ladle for serving. These tools help ensure a smooth process and delicious results.
How do I make Hunt’s Chili step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: dice onion, mince garlic, chop bell pepper, and measure spices. Sauté onion and garlic in a pot, brown the ground beef, then add bell pepper, tomatoes, beans, spices, and broth. Simmer for about 30-45 minutes until thickened. Use a large pot for even heat to achieve a flavorful, comforting chili.
Can I prepare Hunt’s Chili in advance?
Yes, making Hunt’s Chili ahead enhances flavors as spices meld. Cook fully, then cool quickly. Portion into containers for refrigeration (up to 4 days) or freezing (up to 3 months). This method saves time for busy nights and keeps the dish fresh for easy meals or events.
How should I store and reheat Hunt’s Chili?
After cooking, cool the chili to room temperature, then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring until hot for the best taste and texture.