Easy Classic Chili

You’ll see the word “optional” a lot below. That’s because you may want more spice (chili flakes, cayenne, or chili powder) or you may not have some of these spices at home (that’s ok). The most important spice here is the chili powder, which is widely available. You'll have to keep tasting your chili as it cooks for heat and salt, and make it the way you prefer. If you don’t like beans, or are keto, omit them altogether and add more meat (stew meat or cubed chuck). And, the more toppings the better of course, so use your imagination.

Serves 4-6

• 1 T avocado oil, or any oil is fine

• 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken

• 1 red or yellow onion, chopped

• 1 jalapeno pepper, minced, optional

• 3 large garlic cloves, minced or pressed

• 2 T chili powder, or more to taste

• 1⁄2 t cinnamon, optional

• 1⁄2 t red pepper flakes, optional

• 1 t ground cumin

• 1 t cocoa powder

• 1 t garlic powder

• 1 15-oz can chopped tomatoes

• 1 T tomato paste

• 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed, or black beans, kidney beans, whatever you have

• Kosher salt and black pepper

Garnishes

• Guacamole, store-bought or homemade

• Chopped green onions

• Chopped cilantro

• Grated cheddar or Monterey Jack Sour cream

• Tortilla chips

Heat oil over medium heat in a large pot and add the onion, jalapeno if using, and a generous sprinkle of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ground meat. Cook mixture 7-10 minutes over medium high heat, breaking up the meat into crumbles as it cooks. If the meat has rendered more than 2 tablespoons fat, tilt the pot and remove the excess using a large cooking spoon. Add the chili powder, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, cumin, cocoa, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring, for 2-3 minutes more. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, and beans and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook 20 minutes, stirring often, to meld the flavors. Taste and add salt if needed (probably) and a few grindings of black pepper. If you want more spice, stir in 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne or more chili powder. Serve with assorted garnishes. It’s even better the next day.