Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe offers a comforting, rich dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, cold nights, or simply satisfying a craving for a warming, robust meal. This recipe combines fragrant spices, crunchy vegetables, and succulent slow-cooked meats to craft a comprehensive chili ideal for any occasion. We will lead you through Alex’s authentic recipe, introduce a preferred variation, and supply thorough instructions, professional advice, and presentation suggestions to aid you in preparing it at your residence.
About Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe, renowned chef and TV personality, designed her chili recipe to be both straightforward and satisfying. Featured in her cookbook Cook with Me, this chili recipe is adaptable and includes a well-balanced blend of spices and vegetables. In Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe, Alex uses a slow cooker for maximum convenience and rich flavor development over an 8-hour cook time. Many fans of her recipe have added their twists, including Jessica Budiansky, who made notable adjustments to suit her own preferences. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions.
Ingredients Needed fro Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
This recipe features basic, accessible ingredients for a delicious chili. Here’s the breakdown for Alex’s original recipe and Jessica’s modifications.
Ingredients | Alex Guarnaschelli’s Recipe | Jessica Budiansky’s Variation |
Ground Meat | 2 lbs ground beef chuck | 2 lbs ground chuck, 1 lb pork, 1 lb beef stew meat |
Onions | 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped | 2 large sweet onions (1½ chopped for chili, ½ minced for topping) |
Peppers | 1 Fresno chile, 1 red bell pepper | 2 poblano peppers, 3 jalapenos |
Garlic | 8 cloves, minced | 16 cloves, minced |
Tomato Paste | 3 tbsp | 6 tbsp |
Tomatoes | 1 (28 oz) can whole, peeled tomatoes | 2 (24 oz) containers strained tomatoes |
Beans | 1 (15.5 oz) can black beans | 5 (15 oz) cans black beans |
Vinegar | 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar | 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar |
Seasonings | Chili powder, bay leaf, cumin, allspice, red pepper flakes | Chili powder, cayenne, coriander, cumin |
Additional Ingredients | N/A | Flaming Fruit Sauce (ghost pepper) |
Optional Garnishes | Cheddar, sour cream, avocado, scallions, lime, chips | Cheddar, Monterey Jack, avocado, lime, sour cream, jalapeños, chips |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Alex Guarnaschelli’s Original Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat from Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
- Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
- When oil starts to smoke, add ground beef, season with salt, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Transfer browned beef to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Brown the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add remaining oil and cook onions until they begin to brown.
- Add garlic, Fresno chile, bell pepper, and tomato paste, and cook for 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Add tomatoes, chili powder, bay leaf, cumin, allspice, red pepper flakes, and 2 cups water to a slow cooker, stirring to combine.
- Add browned vegetables and beef to the slow cooker, stirring everything together.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chili
- Cover the slow cooker, set to low, and cook for 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- After 7½ hours, add black beans and cook for another 30 minutes on high.
Step 5: Serve
- Let the chili rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings, like cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, lime, and tortilla chips.
4. Jessica Budiansky’s Modified Version
For those without a slow cooker or looking for a spicier take, Jessica Budiansky’s recipe variation is a great option. Here’s how Jessica changes things up:
Additional Ingredients:
- Extra types of meat, including pork shoulder and beef stew meat.
- Substitutes for bell peppers with poblano and jalapeno peppers.
- Adds ghost pepper hot sauce for more heat.
Key Differences in Cooking:
- Browning All the Meat: Jessica recommends browning each type of meat separately in a large, heavy-bottom pot.
- Using More Spices and Peppers: Along with additional cayenne and chili powder, Jessica adds ghost pepper hot sauce for extra heat.
- Cooking on the Stovetop: This variation simmers for 4 hours covered and an additional 2 hours uncovered for a thicker texture.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chili
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will provide a deeper flavor.
- Browning for Flavor: Be sure to brown each layer, as this adds richness to the chili.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the number of peppers or hot sauce based on your spice preference.
Nutrition Facts of Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
Here’s a general nutritional overview for one serving of Alex’s original chili recipe (without garnishes):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | ~350 kcal |
Protein | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
Sodium | 750 mg |
Note: Values may vary depending on modifications and garnish choices.
Community Tips and Praise of Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
This recipe is a fan favorite due to its hearty, savory taste and flexibility. Here are some community tips:
- Serve with Cornbread: Many fans suggest serving chili with homemade cornbread.
- Storage: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch to save for later.
- Midwest Twist: Some fans from the Midwest love pairing chili with peanut butter sandwiches!
FAQs of Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
Q: Can I make Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the meat with plant-based ground alternatives or extra beans and vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
Q: How spicy is this chili?
A: Alex’s original recipe has mild heat, but you can increase spice levels with additional cayenne or hot sauces, like Jessica’s ghost pepper sauce.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Chili will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months frozen.
Conclusion of Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe
Alex Guarnaschelli’s chili recipe offers a deliciously rich meal that’s easy to make with a slow cooker or on the stovetop. The slow-simmered blend of tomatoes, spices, and beef delivers a robust, comforting flavor that’s endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to Alex’s classic version or try Jessica’s spicy twist, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Top with cheddar, avocado, and sour cream for the ultimate cozy meal!
Enjoy Alex Guarnaschelli’s Chili Recipe.