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Firehouse Chili

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Firehouse Chili is a bold, hearty, and spicy chili recipe inspired by the kind often cooked in fire stations—packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and layers of smoky heat. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, game day, or cold-weather comfort.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and broth. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a splash of liquid smoke.
  • This chili tastes even better the next day—perfect for make-ahead meals.
  • Can be cooked in a slow cooker after browning the meat—low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/firehouse-chili/