Smoky ThreeBean Chili with Beef

Instructions

1. 1

   **Prepare the Chili Powder:**

2. 2

   In a small bowl, combine the ancho, guajillo, New Mexico, chipotle chili powders, chili de arbol (if using), ground cumin, and salt. This fragrant blend is your key to incredible flavor!

3. 3

   **Brown the Beef:**

4. 4

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat, searing it until browned on all sides, approximately 6-8 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

5. 5

   **Sauté the Aromatics:**

6. 6

   In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute.

7. 7

   **Combine Ingredients:**

8. 8

   Stir in the chili powder mixture and sauté for an additional minute to toast those spices. Return the browned beef to the pot and add the tomato sauce (or prepared tomato paste), drained kidney beans, drained garbanzo beans, lentils, and beef broth.

9. 9

   **Season and Simmer:**

10. 10

    Season with oregano, smoked paprika, and a healthy pinch of black pepper. Stir everything to combine, bring the chili to a simmer, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 45-60 minutes. Stir occasionally until the lentils are tender and the beef is succulent.

11. 11

    **Adjust and Serve:**

12. 12

    Taste the chili, and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, black pepper, or a bit more chili powder if desired. Serve hot, garnished with toppings of your choice like fresh cilantro, sour cream, or creamy avocado.