Wendy’s Chili

Wendy’s Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s a popular comfort food, especially when you’re looking for something warm and satisfying. Here’s a recipe to replicate Wendy’s chili at home!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, but it adds a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for added richness)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
   • Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Beans:

   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Mix everything together.

4. Add the Broth and Spices:

   • Pour in the beef broth, and then stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar (if using). Add the vinegar if you like a bit of tang.
   • Stir in the tomato paste if you’re using it.

5. Simmer:

   • Bring the chili to a simmer over medium-low heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. You can cook it longer for a richer flavor if you have the time.

6. Taste and Adjust:

   • Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed—add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if you like it spicier or more flavorful.

7. Serve:

   • Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot! It’s great on its own or with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crackers. You can also serve it over rice for a more filling meal.

Tips:

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the beef and add more beans or some chopped vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Adjust the heat: If you like your chili spicy, feel free to add extra cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you want to make it in a slow cooker, brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Enjoy your homemade Wendy’s-style chili!