Mom’s Chili Recipe

This Mom’s Chili Recipe delivers a rich, complex flavor that’s both savory and subtly sweet, with a hint of spice. Combining two types of ground meat with a robust blend of spices, tomatoes, and beans, and finished with the unexpected depth of chocolate and masa harina, this chili is truly a comforting masterpiece.

Mom’s Award-Winning Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Sauté Onion & Bloom Spices: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottom pot, heat the neutral-flavored oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Add the chili powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir constantly and cook for 1 minute to “bloom” the spices, enhancing their flavor.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, stirring until fragrant.
3. Brown Meats: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and ground pork. Stir and break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until both meats are fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
4. Simmer Chili Base: Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), pinto beans (drained and rinsed), and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 90-120 minutes, stirring about every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This long simmer allows the flavors to deepen.
5. Finish with Chocolate & Masa Harina: After simmering, remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the semi-sweet baking chocolate and masa harina. Cook for 5-10 additional minutes, stirring well, until the chocolate is fully melted and blended into the chili, and the chili has thickened slightly from the masa harina.