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Grandma's Smoky Chili

This chili is a hearty, thick stew made with ground meat, beans, and a smoky, tangy tomato base infused with cumin. It is cooked using the Instant Pot, resulting in a rich, tender, and well-developed dish with a savory appearance and a comforting aroma.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or other ground meat
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes preferably fire-roasted for smoky flavor
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons cumin ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or pressure cooker
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns and releases a savory aroma, turning evenly brown.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring frequently until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, stirring to combine, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor.
  4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their smoky aroma.
  5. Add the rinsed kidney beans and pour in the beef broth, mixing everything well to combine all flavors evenly.
  6. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid and stir the chili, observing a thick, hearty texture with bubbling and slight steam rising, indicating it's ready to serve.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed for preferred flavor.
  9. Serve the chili in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

This chili thickens slightly as it cools. For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked chipotle pepper during cooking.