Heartland Chili Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• – for a rich and tender base
• 1/2 pound boneless ground pork
• – adds extra moisture and flavor
• 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed – traditional hearty beans
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed – adds creamy texture
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – essential aromatic
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – mild sweetness and color
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – deepens savory notes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice – adds acidity and body
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – core chili flavor
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin – earthy warmth
• 1 teaspoon paprika – smoky undertones
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – gentle heat
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – herbal balance
• 1.5 teaspoons salt – seasoning enhancer
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – sharp, aromatic finish
• 2 cups beef broth – deepens savory flavor with natural richness
• 1 cup water – balances thickness and consistency
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – thickens and intensifies tomato flavor