This weekend was very emotional for me and one that I’m trying to forget. When I’m in one of these moods I tend to fall into my depressive state and and when I get depressed I start eating. For those that are new to my blog I shared my story on my depression and while journaling is helpful, eating is also one of those things that comfort me. While others thrive on alcohol I love food and there are so many comfort foods that I love including chili. A good bowl of chili can warm you from your head to your toes and our 30 minute chili is no exception. Sometimes you want to eat and you want to eat fast to forget about your problems. If you’re short on time and want something for your family for dinner, a nice quick chili is something that you can do and all you need here is 30 minutes.
Here is what you’ll need.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
2 15-ounce cans chili beans
1 11.5-ounce can of V8
1 small onion, diced
1 green onion, sliced
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon Red Hot sauce, optional
Crushed red pepper, optional
Instructions
In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
When the oil is hot, add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking up the large pieces as it cooks.
Add the garlic and the spices and cook for 1-2 more minutes or until fragrant.
Add the beans and V8 and bring to a simmer.
Turn the heat down to medium-low and cook for 15 minutes.
Taste and add the Red Hot, if desired. This is the only heat I use in this, because we love the flavor. If you like to spice it up even more, add crushed red pepper (or any hot sauce you like).
Taste and adjust seasonings. If it tastes too acidic or tomato-y, you can add a pinch more sugar to balance it out.
Stir in the green onion at the last minute and serve.
Notes:
Serve with whatever your family likes alongside their chili. We are fans of cornbread, extra cheese and sour cream, but a lot of people like Fritos or even elbow macaroni!
Using all chili beans creates a very creamy chili. For a more classic consistency, you can use one can of chili beans and one can of kidney beans.
