📖 Instructions

1. Prep the veggies: First, grab your onion and bell peppers. Dice them into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Don't worry too much about perfection; this is rustic, remember? Mince your garlic cloves finely. If you like a little heat, deseed and mince your jalapeño now too.
2. Brown the beef: Place your large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until it's nicely browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat. This step is crucial for flavor!
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent, about 5-8 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Spice it up: Now for the flavor bomb! Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you dare!). Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes, letting the spices toast slightly. This really brings out their aromas and deepens the stew's flavor profile. You'll smell it right away!
5. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with your spoon to loosen any browned bits—that's all flavor! Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, and kidney beans (rinsed and drained). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Slow cook for flavor: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 60 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and the beef will become incredibly tender. Give it an occasional stir to prevent sticking.
7. Season and serve: After simmering, remove the lid. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Add salt and black pepper to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a splash more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or a side of cornbread. Enjoy your comforting bowl of rustic chili stew!