How do you make chili with fresh tomatoes? If you’re a fan of hearty, flavorful chili and enjoy the freshness of fresh tomatoes, you’re in for a treat. Fresh tomatoes add a vibrant and tangy taste to chili, making it a healthier and more delicious option. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering chili with fresh tomatoes, from selecting the right ingredients to the final taste test.
First, let’s start with the ingredients. To make chili with fresh tomatoes, you’ll need the following:
- 2 pounds of fresh tomatoes, ripe and juicy
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
- 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s move on to the cooking process.
1. Begin by chopping the fresh tomatoes into small pieces. This will help them cook down and release their juices, adding a rich and tangy flavor to the chili.
2. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent and soft.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until it is browned and crumbled.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all the spices.
7. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
8. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste.
9. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream, and enjoy your homemade chili with fresh tomatoes.
By using fresh tomatoes in your chili, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also ensuring that your dish is packed with essential nutrients. Enjoy the process of making chili with fresh tomatoes, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique chili recipe.
