Slow cooker chilli is a staple of many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. It’s a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner to warm up on a cold winter’s night, or a tasty and convenient meal to serve at a party or gathering, slow cooker chilli is a great choice.
The Benefits of Slow Cooker Chilli
There are many benefits to making slow cooker chilli. Here are just a few:
- Convenience: Slow cooker chilli is incredibly easy to make. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, turn it on, and let it cook while you’re busy with other things.
- Flexibility: Slow cooker chilli can be made with a wide range of ingredients, so you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
- Cost-effective: Slow cooker chilli is a great way to stretch your food budget. You can make a large batch of chilli with inexpensive ingredients, and it will last for several meals.
- Nutritious: Slow cooker chilli is a nutritious meal option. It’s packed with protein, fibre, and vitamins, making it a great choice for a healthy meal.
Basic Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chilli
Here are the basic ingredients you’ll need to make slow cooker chilli:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chilli powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, tortilla chips
Variations on the Basic Recipe
One of the best things about slow cooker chilli is that you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations on the basic recipe:
- Vegetarian chilli: Replace the ground beef with additional beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans. You can also add other vegetables, such as diced carrots or zucchini.
- Vegan chilli: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein source, such as tofu or tempeh. Use a vegan broth and omit the cheese and sour cream toppings.
- Spicy chilli: Add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce to give your chilli an extra kick.
- Mild chilli: Omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chilli powder for a milder flavour.
Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Chilli
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making slow cooker chilli:
Browning the Ground Beef
Before you add the ingredients to your slow cooker, you’ll need to brown the ground beef. Here’s how:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the ground beef is browned, drain the excess fat and add it to your slow cooker.
Adding the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Once you’ve browned the ground beef, it’s time to add the ingredients to your slow cooker. Here’s how:
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
- Add the chilli powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Chilli
Once you’ve added all the ingredients to the slow cooker, it’s time to cook the chilli. Here’s how:
- Cook the chilli on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the chilli is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving and Storing Slow Cooker Chilli
Here are a few tips for serving and storing slow cooker chilli:
- Serve hot: Serve the chilli hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
- Store leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheat safely: Reheat the chilli to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Tips and Variations for Slow Cooker Chilli
Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your slow cooker chilli:
- Use a slow cooker liner: Use a slow cooker liner to make cleanup easier.
- Add other ingredients: Add other ingredients, such as diced potatoes or carrots, to make the chilli more hearty.
- Use different types of beans: Use different types of beans, such as pinto beans or navy beans, to change up the flavour and texture.
- Add a splash of vinegar: Add a splash of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, to give the chilli a tangy flavour.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Slow Cooker Chilli
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making slow cooker chilli:
- Overcooking the chilli: Don’t overcook the chilli, as it can become dry and flavourless.
- Not browning the ground beef: Don’t skip the step of browning the ground beef, as it adds flavour and texture to the chilli.
- Not seasoning the chilli: Don’t forget to season the chilli with salt and pepper, as it brings out the flavours of the other ingredients.
Conclusion
Slow cooker chilli is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, hearty flavour and customizable ingredients, it’s a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. By following the tips and variations outlined in this article, you can make a slow cooker chilli that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
What is the best type of meat to use in slow cooker chilli?
The best type of meat to use in slow cooker chilli is a matter of personal preference. You can use ground beef, ground turkey, ground pork, or a combination of meats. Ground beef is a classic choice and provides a rich, meaty flavor. Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be a good choice if you’re looking for a healthier alternative.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your chilli, you can also use diced beef or pork. Diced beef can add a nice texture and flavor to the dish, while diced pork can add a bit of smokiness. You can also use sausage, such as chorizo or Italian sausage, to add some extra spice and flavor.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker chilli?
The cooking time for slow cooker chilli can vary depending on the type of slow cooker you use and the level of heat you prefer. Generally, it takes around 6-8 hours to cook slow cooker chilli on low heat. If you prefer a thicker, more intense flavor, you can cook it for 8-10 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can also cook it on high heat for 3-4 hours.
It’s also important to note that you can cook slow cooker chilli overnight and wake up to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker before bed and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours. In the morning, you’ll have a hot, delicious meal waiting for you.
Can I make slow cooker chilli in advance?
Yes, you can make slow cooker chilli in advance. In fact, slow cooker chilli is one of those dishes that gets better with time. You can cook it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, simply add the chilli to the slow cooker and cook on low heat for a few hours.
If you’re planning to make slow cooker chilli in advance, it’s a good idea to cook it without the beans and tomatoes. These ingredients can become mushy and unappetizing if they’re cooked for too long. Simply add the beans and tomatoes when you’re ready to reheat the chilli.
How do I serve slow cooker chilli?
Slow cooker chilli is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it over rice, with some crusty bread, or with some cornbread. You can also serve it with some toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions.
If you want to get creative, you can also use slow cooker chilli as a filling for tacos or baked potatoes. Simply spoon the chilli into a taco shell or over a baked potato and top with your favorite toppings. You can also use it as a topping for hot dogs or nachos.
Can I make slow cooker chilli vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can make slow cooker chilli vegetarian or vegan. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add some extra vegetables, such as bell peppers and mushrooms. You can also use vegetarian sausage or textured vegetable protein (TVP) to add some extra protein and flavor.
To make it vegan, omit the meat and dairy products, such as cheese and sour cream. You can use vegan alternatives, such as vegan cheese and non-dairy milk, to add some extra flavor and creaminess. You can also use tofu or tempeh to add some extra protein.
How do I store leftover slow cooker chilli?
Leftover slow cooker chilli can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. To store it in the refrigerator, simply spoon the chilli into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To store it in the freezer, spoon the chilli into an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat the chilli, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it quickly by submerging the container in cold water. Then, reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop until it’s hot and bubbly.
Can I make slow cooker chilli in a Instant Pot or pressure cooker?
Yes, you can make slow cooker chilli in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. In fact, using a pressure cooker can be a great way to cook chilli quickly and efficiently. Simply add all the ingredients to the pressure cooker and cook for 30-40 minutes.
Using a pressure cooker can also help to tenderize the meat and cook the vegetables quickly. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the chilli may be slightly different than slow cooker chilli. You can also use the sauté function on the Instant Pot to brown the meat and cook the vegetables before adding the remaining ingredients.