Beef Chili with Kidney Beans and Cornbread

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef 5 oz
• Kidney beans 1 cup
• Tomato sauce 1 cup
• Cornbread 1 piece
• Onion 1/2 medium
• Garlic 2 cloves
• Chili powder 1 tbsp
• Ground cumin 1 tsp
• Paprika 1 tsp
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Olive oil 1 tbsp
• Water or beef broth 1/2 cup

Method

1. Prepare Ingredients. Finely chop half a medium onion and mince two garlic cloves. Measure out all your spices and other ingredients so they are ready to use.
   Tip: Having everything measured and ready before you start cooking makes the process smoother.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning.
   Tip: Cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste.
3. Brown the Ground Beef. Add the lean ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned and no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes.
   Tip: Drain any excess fat if desired to reduce fat content.
4. Add Spices and Tomato Sauce. Stir in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with spices. Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce and stir to combine.
   Tip: Taste and adjust spices as you go for your preferred heat level.
5. Simmer the Chili. Add the cooked kidney beans to the pot. If the chili looks too thick, add up to 1/2 cup of water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   Tip: Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Warm the Cornbread. While the chili simmers, warm your piece of cornbread. You can heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave it for 30-45 seconds until warm.
   Tip: Warming the cornbread enhances its texture and flavor.
7. Serve. Once the chili is ready, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the hot beef chili in a bowl with the warm cornbread on the side.
   Tip: Add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top if you like.

Pro tips

• Use lean ground beef to keep the chili healthier and less greasy.
• Rinse canned kidney beans well if using canned to reduce sodium and improve flavor.