23 Apr 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
4 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1/2 cup tomatoes
0.69 cup mushrooms
1/4 tsp chili powder
1 tbsp onion powder
2 tbsp BBQ sauce
1 tbsp ketchup
3/4 cup lentils
1/2 cup kidney beans
1 cup red pepper
Ripped chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a variety of seasonings to create a delicious meal that is both healthy and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week. The use of lentils and kidney beans boosts the protein content while adding a comforting texture. Whether you are an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this simple yet delicious recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Chop the tomatoes, mushrooms, and red bell pepper as specified.
- Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion if you are using fresh ones.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large saucepan or pot, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- If you have added garlic and onion, add them now and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.
3. Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, and red bell pepper to the pot.
- Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Season the Mixture:
- Stir in the chili powder and onion powder, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Add the BBQ sauce and ketchup, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors.
5. Add Lentils and Beans:
- Fold in the cooked or canned lentils and the drained and rinsed kidney beans.
- Mix everything together well.
6. Simmer the Chili:
- If you desire a more liquid chili, pour in 1 cup of low-sodium broth at this point and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve:
- Once the chili is thickened to your liking and the flavors are well combined, remove it from the heat.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips:
- Use a large pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and to prevent overcrowding the pan.
- Rinse the lentils and kidney beans well before adding them to the pot to remove any excess starch and sodium.
- For a spicier chili, you can add additional chili powder or incorporate fresh chili peppers into the mix.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, allow it to simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Consider garnishing your bowl of chili with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor.
This ripped chili recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to please any crowd. The combination of ground beef, beans, and vegetables creates a well-rounded dish packed with protein, fiber, and tons of flavor. Whether served on its own, with a side of cornbread, or over a bed of rice, this chili is a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade chili any time of the year!