We’ve always loved the hearty warmth of a good chili, and Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe stands out as our go-to favorite for its bold flavors and simple twists. Originating from a duo of passionate home cooks, this dish brings together spices that create a perfect balance of heat and depth, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
What we appreciate most is how easy it is to whip up while delivering that authentic, comforting taste. Whether you’re a chili novice or a seasoned pro, we’ll guide you through our version that’s packed with tips to make it your own. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
Ingredients
In our Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that build the bold, comforting flavors we’ve come to love. To make this dish accessible for beginners and pros alike, we organize the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep notes for seamless preparation.
Main Components
- 1 large onion, diced: We start with this as our base for building flavors—chop it finely for even cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Added next for aromatic depth—use a garlic press for efficiency.
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean): This forms the hearty protein layer—opt for freshly ground for the best taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Incorporated after the meat to add texture—rinse well to reduce sodium.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Follows kidney beans for a mix of nutrients and creaminess.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Poured in to create the sauce base—choose no-salt-added for control.
- 2 cups beef broth: Added for moisture and richness—low-sodium versions help balance flavors.
- *2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice for that signature kick—*adjust to taste for heat levels.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Blended in for earthy notes—*freshly ground seeds enhance intensity.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness—*use for that authentic, grilled flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Season to taste—start here and adjust based on other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Added for a final zing—*grind just before use for maximum aroma.
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced: If you want extra heat, include this at the beginning with the onion.
These ingredients not only make our Fred and Red’s Chili simple to prepare but also customizable, ensuring a meal that’s both nutritious and full of character. Stay tuned as we move into the preparation steps next.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing Fred and Red’s Chili with simple, step-by-step directions that build on our carefully selected ingredients for a hearty, flavorful result.
Prep
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get our ingredients ready for optimal efficiency and flavor. Start by gathering all items from our ingredients list to ensure a smooth process.
- Dice the onion: Finely dice 1 large onion into even pieces, aiming for about 1 cup, to release its sweet aroma when sautéed.
- Mince the garlic: Mince 4 cloves of garlic to create a pungent base that infuses the chili with depth and warmth.
- Prepare the proteins: In a bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning, ensuring it’s ready for browning.
- Rinse the beans: Drain and rinse one 15-ounce can each of kidney beans and black beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Measure the spices: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to create a bold spice blend that delivers authentic, smoky notes.
- Optional heat addition: If desired, finely chop 1 jalapeño and set it aside for those who crave an extra kick of spicy intensity.
Cook
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we move to the cooking stage where flavors meld together in a savory symphony. Use a large pot over medium heat for even cooking and to capture the rich aromas.
- Brown the meat: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and juices run clear, releasing a savory scent that fills the kitchen.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant steam rises, building a flavorful foundation.
- Incorporate spices: Stir in the spice blend we prepared earlier. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their earthy flavors and creating a warm, inviting aroma that hints at the chili’s depth.
- Add beans and tomatoes: Pour in the rinsed kidney beans, black beans, one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, and 1 cup of beef broth. If using, add the chopped jalapeño here for an extra layer of fiery zest.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow the flavors to meld, resulting in a thick, hearty texture with rich, comforting tastes.
- Final check: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring it’s perfectly balanced before serving our Fred and Red’s Chili masterpiece.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe with you as it’s become a staple in our kitchen. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring warmth and flavor to any gathering.
Try tweaking it to suit your tastes and enjoy the results. We’re confident you’ll make it your go-to for effortless, hearty dinners that everyone raves about.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe?
Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings. It features bold spices, hearty ingredients like ground beef and beans, and an authentic taste that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe offers straightforward guidance and tips for customization.
What ingredients are needed for Fred and Red’s Chili?
The key ingredients include diced onion, minced garlic, ground beef, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Optional additions, such as jalapeño for extra heat, allow for personalization. These high-quality components ensure a nutritious, customizable meal that’s simple to assemble.
How do I prepare Fred and Red’s Chili?
Start by prepping ingredients: dice onion, mince garlic, season beef, rinse beans, and measure spices. Brown the beef, sauté vegetables, add spices, then incorporate beans and tomatoes. Simmer the mixture to blend flavors, and do a final taste check for seasoning. The process is straightforward, resulting in a hearty, delicious chili ready in about 45 minutes of active cooking.
Is Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s ideal for beginners due to its simple steps and minimal ingredients. The article provides clear guidance on prepping and cooking, making it easy to follow. With basic kitchen skills, you’ll create a comforting meal without hassle, building confidence in the kitchen.
Can I customize Fred and Red’s Chili Recipe?
Absolutely, you can personalize it by adjusting spices for heat, swapping beans or adding veggies like bell peppers, or using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. The recipe’s flexibility ensures it suits different tastes and dietary needs while maintaining its bold, comforting flavor.
How long does it take to make Fred and Red’s Chili?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, with cooking taking 30-45 minutes of simmering. Overall, you can have a hot, hearty meal ready in under an hour, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or gatherings.
What tips can help me get the best results with Fred and Red’s Chili?
Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, taste as you go to balance seasonings, and let it simmer longer for deeper taste. For extra thickness, mash some beans into the mix. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later, ensuring a delicious, versatile dish every time.