Cinnamon-Spiced Beef Chili (Print Version)

Tender beef and beans cooked with aromatic cinnamon and spices for a rich, comforting dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes or ground beef

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)

→ Beans

06 - 2 cups cooked kidney beans or 1 (15-oz) can, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

07 - 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
08 - 2 cups beef broth
09 - 2 tbsp tomato paste

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
13 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 tsp ground coriander
15 - 1 tsp dried oregano
16 - 1 tsp salt, or to taste
17 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
18 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Garnish (optional)

19 - Sour cream
20 - Chopped fresh cilantro
21 - Sliced green onions
22 - Shredded cheddar cheese

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Heat a drizzle of oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.
02 - Add the onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and jalapeño, cooking 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Return beef to the pot. Stir in chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, coriander, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Coat evenly.
04 - Mix in tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring mixture to a simmer.
05 - Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
06 - Stir in kidney beans and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until chili thickens and beef is tender. Adjust seasoning to taste.
07 - Serve hot, topped with sour cream, cilantro, green onions, and shredded cheddar if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The subtle warmth of cinnamon adds a unique depth without overpowering.
  • Hearty beef chuck ensures a tender and satisfying bite in every spoonful.
  • Gluten-free and adaptable to different dietary preferences.
  • Ideal for batch cooking and leftovers reheat beautifully.
02 -
  • Brown the beef in batches to ensure proper caramelization and prevent steaming.
  • Sauté the vegetables until soft to build a rich base flavor.
  • Simmer uncovered at the end to achieve perfect chili thickness.
  • Adjust seasonings last to tailor salt and spice levels to your taste.
  • Use fresh spices whenever possible for more vibrant flavors.
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