Smoky ThreeBean Chili with Beef

This chili combines the smoky flavors of your custom chili powder with tender chunks of beef and a hearty mix of beans. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.

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
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) Tomato sauce (or 6 oz Tomato paste mixed with water to desired consistency)
• 1 can (15 oz) Kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (15 oz) Garbanzo beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup Lentils (rinsed and drained)
• 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 Chili Powder:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the ancho, guajillo, New Mexico, chipotle chili powders, chili de arbol (if using), ground cumin, and salt. This will be your flavorful seasoning blend.

2. Brown the Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Stir in the chili powder mixture and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
   • Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the tomato sauce (or prepared tomato paste), drained kidney beans, drained garbanzo beans, lentils, and beef broth.

5. Season and Simmer:

   • Add the oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow it to cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the beef is juicy and flavorful.