We’ve always loved how a classic chili can warm the soul, but our Sweet Tomatoes Chili Recipe adds a delightful twist with juicy, sweet tomatoes that balance the spice. Originating from our kitchen experiments, this dish brings together bold flavors and a touch of sweetness that makes it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
It’s not just hearty—it’s a fresh take on tradition that we’ll bet becomes your go-to comfort food. With simple ingredients, we promise it’ll impress without the fuss.
Ingredients
In our Sweet Tomatoes Chili Recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that balance the spicy heat with the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes, ensuring a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.
- Onions: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped, as the base for building flavors.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, to add aromatic depth right after the onions.
- Ground beef: 1 pound (85% lean), to be browned for a hearty protein foundation.
- Sweet tomatoes: 4 cups of fresh, ripe cherry or beefsteak tomatoes, diced, providing the signature sweetness that sets this chili apart.
- Bell peppers: 2 medium green bell peppers, seeded and chopped, for added crunch and mild flavor.
- Beans: 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed, to introduce texture and heartiness.
- Spices: 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, all freshly ground if possible, to layer in the essential spice profile.
- Tomato sauce: 1 can (15 ounces) of no-salt-added tomato sauce, to enhance the tomato-forward taste.
- Broth: 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth, for simmering and achieving the perfect consistency.
- Sweetener: 1 tablespoon of honey or brown sugar, to subtly amplify the sweetness of the tomatoes without overpowering the dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, let’s bring our Sweet Tomatoes Chili to life with simple, step-by-step guidance. We’ll ensure every bite balances spicy heat with the sweet tomatoes‘ juicy sweetness for a comforting, flavorful dish.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient. Begin by finely chopping 1 medium yellow onion and mincing 3 garlic cloves to release their aromatic essence. Next, dice 4 cups of sweet tomatoes into even 1/2-inch pieces, capturing their vibrant red hue and natural juices that will add a subtle sweetness to our chili.
Then, slice 1 green bell pepper into 1/4-inch strips for a crisp texture that complements the dish. Drain and rinse 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney beans to remove excess sodium, ensuring our chili remains balanced and hearty. Measure out the spices—2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika—and set them aside in a small bowl for easy access. Finally, combine 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar with 1 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce and 2 cups low-sodium beef broth in a separate container, stirring gently to blend their rich flavors.
Cook the Chili
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll now build the flavors layer by layer in a large pot over medium heat. First, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil until it shimmers, then add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and release a fragrant, savory aroma that fills the kitchen.
Next, add 1 pound ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns for 5-7 minutes, until it’s no longer pink and the juices sizzle with spicy undertones. Stir in the diced sweet tomatoes, sliced green bell pepper, drained kidney beans, tomato sauce mixture, and spice blend, letting the ingredients meld into a vibrant, hearty mix that promises a symphony of sweet and spicy notes.
Pour in the beef broth, bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the chili will thicken to a rich, velvety consistency, with the sweet tomatoes infusing a bright, tangy sweetness that offsets the spices’ warmth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot for the ultimate comfort.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our Sweet Tomatoes Chili recipe and how it adds a delightful sweetness to classic flavors. It’s a simple way to create memorable meals that bring everyone together.
Trust us, once you’ve tried it, you’ll find endless ways to make it your own—whether tweaking spices or serving it up for gatherings. Let’s keep the kitchen adventures going!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet Tomatoes Chili?
Sweet Tomatoes Chili is a unique twist on traditional chili, blending juicy sweet tomatoes with spices for a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. It’s a simple, comforting recipe ideal for family dinners or chilly evenings, originating from easy kitchen experiments to create a flavorful favorite without complexity.
What are the key ingredients in Sweet Tomatoes Chili?
The main ingredients include ground beef for protein, diced sweet tomatoes for sweetness, chopped yellow onion and minced garlic for flavor, green bell peppers and kidney beans for texture, plus spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. It also uses no-salt-added tomato sauce and low-sodium beef broth for a rich base, with a touch of honey or brown sugar to enhance the taste.
How do I prepare Sweet Tomatoes Chili?
Start by chopping onions, mincing garlic, dicing tomatoes, and slicing bell peppers. Sauté onions and garlic, brown the ground beef, then combine all ingredients in a pot. Simmer for 45-60 minutes until flavors meld and the chili thickens. It’s straightforward and requires basic kitchen tools for a comforting meal.
How long does it take to cook Sweet Tomatoes Chili?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, and cooking involves simmering for 45-60 minutes. Total time is roughly 1 hour, allowing flavors to develop into a rich, velvety consistency without needing constant attention.
Can I make Sweet Tomatoes Chili vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, mushrooms, or soy crumbles for a vegetarian version. Keep the sweet tomatoes, beans, and spices as the base, adjusting seasonings to maintain the sweet-spicy balance while ensuring it’s meat-free.
What makes this Sweet Tomatoes Chili recipe unique?
This recipe stands out by incorporating fresh sweet tomatoes for a natural sweetness that balances the spices, unlike traditional chilis. It’s designed for simplicity, using everyday ingredients to create a comforting dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for gatherings, making it a go-to comfort food option.