“When our town’s drive-in of 68 years closed, everyone was missing their signature dish. Most recipes nowadays are chunky and have things like beans in them…”
This recipe recreates the classic, rich, and slightly spicy flavors of a traditional chili parlor chili. It’s a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a cold day, featuring a blend of savory spices and a deep, robust flavor.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground beef (90/10 or 80/20) | 1 pound |
| Beef or chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Tomato sauce or puree | 1/2 cup |
| Chili powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Chili flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| Soy sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Brown the ground beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use a spoon or spatula to break it up. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until most of the pink is gone.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the beef or chicken broth, tomato sauce or puree, chili powder, cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, paprika, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom.
- Season and serve: Season the chili with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot.
