Smoky Beef Chili with Homemade Chili Powder

This tantalizing smoky beef chili is crafted with a homemade chili powder that brings out the best flavors of every ingredient. The combination of dried chilies, combined with tender beef stew meat, creates a comforting dish that'll warm your soul.

Ingredients

• For the Chili Powder:

  • 3 tablespoons Ancho chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons Guajillo chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon New Mexico chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon Chipotle chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Chili de Arbol (optional, for heat)
  • 1.5 tablespoons Ground Cumin
  • Salt to taste

• For the Chili:

  • 1.5 lbs Beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 large Onion, diced
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
  • 1 can (28 oz) Diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) Kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 cup Beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • Black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Homemade Chili Powder:

   • In a bowl, combine the Ancho, Guajillo, New Mexico, Chipotle, Chili de Arbol (if using), and cumin. Mix well and set aside.

2. Sear the Beef:

   • In a large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Season the beef stew meat with salt and black pepper.
   • Add the meat to the pot in batches (if necessary) and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the browned meat and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Return the seared beef to the pot.
   • Add in your homemade chili powder, oregano, and smoked paprika, stirring thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables.

5. Simmer the Chili:

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth. Mix well.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavors meld together. Stir occasionally.