Chili is a hearty dish infused with aromatic spices and rich tomato sauce, slow-cooked to perfection for a satisfying, flavorful meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food!
Soak the kidney beans in water overnight for about 12 hours.
Boil them in 1 liter of water in a pressure cooker for about 20 minutes until they are tender. Set aside.
In a large pot, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Chop the onion, add to the pot, and season with salt. Sauté until softened.
Dice the red pepper, add to the pot, and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
Mince the garlic cloves, add to the pot, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the minced pork to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Cook until the pork is browned.
Stir in paprika, chili powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
Add flour to the pot and cook for a couple of minutes to toast the flour.
Add tomato puree and passata, mixing until well combined. Cook for 5 minutes.
Add bay leaf, and oregano to the pot.
Pour in the wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol.
Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked kidney beans to the pot.
Pour in the chicken broth for additional flavor and moisture, mixing until well combined.
Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve the chili hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese. Garnish with fresh coriander.
Notes
Spice Balance: Adjust the amount of chili powder, paprika, and cumin to achieve the right level of spiciness and depth of flavor. Taste and add gradually.Slow Cooking: Allow the chili to simmer for an extended period. This slow cooking helps meld the flavors and tenderize the meat.Tomato Components: Use a combination of tomato puree and passata for a rich and smooth texture. The acidity in tomatoes balances the richness of the meat.Liquid Ratio: Control the liquid content by adding chicken broth. It keeps the chili moist without being too soupy. Adjust as needed during cooking.Herbs and Seasonings: Add dried herbs like oregano and a bay leaf for depth of flavor. Adjust the salt, pepper, and sugar to taste.Wine Addition: Deglaze the pan with wine to enhance flavors. Choose red or white wine based on your preference.Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. This is crucial for achieving a well-balanced flavor.Garnishes: Serve with garnishes like sour cream and shredded cheese. These add creaminess and enhance the overall taste.Storage: Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer the chili to an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.