Save to Pins Discover the comforting warmth of Cinnamon-Spiced Beef Chili, a hearty and aromatic twist on a classic American favorite. Tender cubes of beef mingle with kidney beans and a unique hint of cinnamon, creating a flavor profile that's both familiar and intriguingly different. Perfect for cozy dinners, this chili brings depth and spice to your table with every spoonful.
Save to Pins This chili is more than just a meal – it's an experience. A blend of spices creates a fragrant aroma while the slow simmer lets the flavors marry perfectly. Whether you're aiming to impress guests or enjoy a weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill, delivering comfort with a twist.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) beef chuck, cut into ½-inch cubes (or ground beef)
- Vegetables: 1 large onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- Beans: 2 cups (340 g) cooked kidney beans (or 1 (15-oz/425 g) can, drained and rinsed)
- Liquids: 1 (14.5-oz/410 g) can diced tomatoes; 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth; 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt, or to taste; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Garnish (optional): Sour cream; Chopped fresh cilantro; Sliced green onions; Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- 1. Brown the beef
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove beef and set aside.
- 2. Sauté vegetables
- Add the onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Add spices and beef
- Return the beef to the pot. Add chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, coriander, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.
- 4. Incorporate liquids
- Mix in the tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- 5. Simmer covered
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6. Add beans and continue cooking
- Stir in the kidney beans and continue to simmer uncovered for another 20-25 minutes, until the chili thickens and beef is tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 7. Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To intensify the flavors, allow the chili to rest for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator; reheating will deepen the cinnamon and spice notes. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking. Adjust the heat level by controlling jalapeño and cayenne pepper amounts.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead of beef. Leave out jalapeño and cayenne for a milder version suitable for kids. To incorporate more vegetables, add diced zucchini or corn during the simmering stage.
Serviervorschläge
This chili pairs wonderfully with classic cornbread or steamed rice. Garnish generously with sour cream, shredded cheddar, chopped fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions for added creaminess and freshness.
Save to Pins Embrace the cozy magic of this cinnamon-infused chili—a dish that comforts the soul and excites the palate. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with friends and family, it brings warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Beef chuck cut into cubes is ideal for tender, flavorful results after slow cooking. Ground beef can be used as an alternative.
- → How can I add heat to this dish?
Include jalapeño or increase cayenne pepper to add a spicy kick that complements the warm cinnamon note.
- → Can I use dried or canned beans?
Both work well, but canned kidney beans should be drained and rinsed before adding towards the end for best texture.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor?
Fresh cilantro, sour cream, sliced green onions, or shredded cheddar cheese add creamy, fresh, and sharp contrasts to the rich base.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients by default. Always verify processed items like broth or tomato paste for gluten-free certification.