📖 Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure you actually drain it though I forgot once and uh...it wasn't pretty.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. They should be nice and soft and release their aroma.
3. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine. If you're feeling fancy you can totally roast your tomatoes ahead of time for an extra depth of flavor but uh...who has time for that?!
4. Incorporate Spices: Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Now is the time to add the cocoa powder! It changes everything!
5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Beans: Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans (drained and rinsed). Cook for another 15-20 minutes to heat the beans through. You can also add other types of beans if you're feeling adventurous. Black beans are also good and uh...sometimes I just add whatever I have in the pantry!
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste. Don't be afraid to experiment a little! You can also add a splash of hot sauce if you want some extra heat. Some people even add a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity of the tomatoes. What does that mean for you?
8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Some popular choices include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if you're feeling sassy.
9. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Pioneer Woman's chili! It's perfect on its own or with a side of cornbread or crackers. I personally like a grilled cheese sammich with mine.