We’ve all craved a hearty bowl of chili on chilly evenings and our Petros Chili Recipe hits the spot every time. This flavorful take draws from classic Southwestern roots while adding our unique twist for a bold kick that keeps you coming back.
As food enthusiasts we’ve honed this recipe to balance spice heat and rich flavors making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. You’ll discover why it’s a go-to favorite that’s simple yet satisfying.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful Petros Chili Recipe with its Southwestern flair, we’ve selected ingredients that deliver bold spices and a perfect harmony of heat and richness. Below is the complete list, ordered by preparation sequence, with precise measurements and prep notes for accuracy.
- Onion: 1 large, diced (for sautéing as the base)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (added early for aromatic depth)
- Ground beef: 1 pound, lean (browned next for protein foundation)
- Bell pepper: 1 medium, seeded and chopped (incorporated after meat for added crunch)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces, undrained) (stirred in for tangy moisture)
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 ounces, drained and rinsed) (added toward the end for texture)
- Chili powder: 2 tablespoons (key for the signature heat)
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon, ground (enhances earthy notes)
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon (our unique twist for subtle smokiness)
- Beef broth: 2 cups (used to adjust consistency)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste (season at the end)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground (for final flavor balance)
Instructions
With our carefully selected ingredients in hand, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our bold and flavorful Petros Chili Recipe. Let’s transform these fresh components into a hearty, aromatic dish that balances heat and richness perfectly.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything integrates smoothly and efficiently. Begin by dicing 1 large onion and mincing 4 cloves of garlic to release their pungent aromas. Next, chop 1 bell pepper into small pieces for even distribution of its sweet crunch. Drain and rinse 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans to remove excess sodium and enhance their creamy texture. Measure out the spices—2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika—to add layers of earthy warmth. Finally, have 1 pound of lean ground beef ready at room temperature for quick browning, along with 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes and 2 cups of beef broth for the base. This quick prep sets the stage for a seamless cooking process.
Cooking the Chili
We move to the stovetop to build the chili’s robust flavors step by step. In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers, then add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible savory scent. Next, brown 1 pound of lean ground beef in the same pot, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes, allowing the meat’s rich juices to meld with the aromatics.
Once the beef is ready, stir in the chopped bell pepper, 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes with their juices, the drained kidney beans, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth to create a hearty base, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, as the flavors intensify and the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency that coats your spoon.
| Step | Time (minutes) | Key Observation |
|---|---|---|
| Sauté onions and garlic | 3-4 | Golden and fragrant |
| Brown ground beef | 5-6 | No longer pink |
| Simmer the chili | 25-30 | Thickened sauce |
Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly prepare our Petros Chili Recipe, we rely on a selection of essential tools and equipment that streamline the process from prep to simmering. These items help us achieve the perfect balance of bold flavors and rich textures, building directly on the ingredient preparation and cooking steps we’ve outlined.
Here’s a curated list of the key tools you’ll need, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: We recommend a 6-quart heavy-bottomed pot for browning the ground beef and simmering the chili. This ensures even heat distribution, preventing scorching and allowing flavors to meld into a velvety consistency.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp 8-inch chef’s knife is crucial for dicing the onion, mincing garlic, and chopping bell peppers with precision, making prep work quick and safe.
- Cutting Board: Opt for a sturdy, non-slip wooden or plastic cutting board to handle all vegetable and meat prep, keeping your workspace organized and hygienic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so use a set of stainless steel measuring cups and spoons for ingredients like chili powder and beef broth.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: This versatile tool is ideal for stirring and sautéing, as its heat-resistant material won’t scratch your pot while we build those fragrant aromatics.
- Can Opener: For canned items like diced tomatoes and kidney beans, a reliable manual can opener ensures easy access without mess.
| Pot Size (Quarts) | Ideal Batch Size (Servings) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4-6 | Small family meals |
| 6 | 6-8 | Our standard Petros Chili |
| 8+ | 8-12+ | Large gatherings |
Make-Ahead and Storage
One of the beauties of our Petros Chili Recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing flavors to deepen and making it perfect for busy schedules. We love how this hearty dish tastes even better after resting, as the spices meld and the richness intensifies over time.
Making Ahead
To streamline your cooking process, we recommend preparing Petros Chili in advance. Start by prepping ingredients the night before: dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and measure out spices like chili powder and cumin. This ensures a seamless assembly when you’re ready to cook. For full make-ahead, follow the cooking instructions up to the simmering step, then let the chili cool completely before storing. This method not only saves time but also enhances the dish’s aromatic profile, with the beef’s savory notes and smoky paprika becoming more pronounced.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps our Petros Chili fresh and flavorful, maintaining its velvety texture and bold spice balance. Always use airtight containers to preserve the dish’s hearty essence.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 4 days | Cool the chili to room temperature before transferring to the fridge. Store in shallow containers for even cooling, which helps retain the dish’s rich, spicy aroma and prevents sogginess. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn. This locks in the chili’s comforting heat and depth, making it easy to thaw and reheat for a quick, satisfying meal. |
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy stored chili, we suggest reheating gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches a simmer. This revives the dish’s vibrant flavors and ensures a warm, inviting texture without overcooking the beans or diluting the spices. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for the best results.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted the Petros Chili Recipe to bring warmth and bold flavors into your kitchen, making it a go-to for any occasion. It’s more than just a meal—it’s our favorite way to gather loved ones and create lasting memories.
Try tweaking it with your own twists, and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our homes. We’re confident it’ll spice up your routine and leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Petros Chili Recipe?
The Petros Chili Recipe is a comforting Southwestern-inspired dish perfect for chilly evenings. It features bold flavors, spices, and a balance of heat and richness, ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Created by food enthusiasts, it’s a simple yet satisfying favorite that combines diced onions, garlic, ground beef, and spices for a hearty meal.
What ingredients are needed for Petros Chili?
You’ll need a large diced onion, minced garlic, lean ground beef, chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, beef broth, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients are selected for their bold spices and harmonious flavors, ensuring a rich and spicy outcome in this easy recipe.
How do you prepare Petros Chili?
Start by dicing and measuring ingredients for prep. Sauté onions and garlic until golden, brown the ground beef, then combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer until flavors meld and the sauce thickens. Aim for fragrant aromatics and a velvety consistency, taking about 30-45 minutes total for a hearty, balanced dish.
What tools and equipment are required for Petros Chili?
Use a 6-quart heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking, a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for chopping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon for stirring, and a can opener for canned items. Choose pot sizes based on batch needs, like small family meals or larger gatherings.
Can I make Petros Chili ahead of time?
Yes, Petros Chili is great for make-ahead prep. Chop and measure ingredients the night before, or cook up to the simmering step, then cool and store. This allows flavors to deepen, making it ideal for busy schedules while enhancing its aromatic profile for quick, satisfying meals later.
How should I store leftover Petros Chili?
Refrigerate Petros Chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months in portioned bags for easy reheating. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or microwave, stirring to maintain its rich flavors and texture without losing the perfect balance of heat and richness.
Is Petros Chili suitable for family gatherings?
Absolutely, it’s a versatile dish that’s simple to scale for groups. Its bold, comforting flavors make it a hit for family dinners or events, offering a balance of spice and richness that appeals to all ages. Plus, it reheats well, adding convenience for larger gatherings.