As temperatures drop and snow blankets the streets, many find solace in the warm embrace of comfort food. Nothing quite matches the heartwarming appeal of chili during a winter storm, making it a go-to dish for families and friends alike. With the forecast predicting a significant snowstorm, local grocery stores have reported a surge in the demand for chili ingredients.
A Primal Craving for Chili
Super cold weather not only sends Pittsburgh residents scrambling for essentials such as bread and milk but it also activates a deep-rooted craving for delicious, soul-warming chili. Jannah Drexler, public relations manager at Giant Eagle, indicates that many shoppers are considering chili as they prepare for the incoming storm. “Our team has noticed a unique increase in sales of chili ingredients in advance of predicted winter storms. So, it’s safe to say that a lot of people will be bringing out their chili pots this weekend,” said Drexler.
With this surge in interest, we’ve compiled a collection of delicious chili recipes that you can whip up to keep those winter blues at bay.
Texas-style Chili Con Carne
This hearty dish is perfect for meat lovers. With smoky flavors coming from bacon and decadent chunks of beef chuck roast, this Texas-style chili will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup ground ancho chile pepper
- 1 tablespoon ground chipotle chile pepper
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup cornmeal
- 1 (3-pound) beef chuck roast, cubed
- 8 slices of thick bacon
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 small yellow onions, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 jalapeño chiles, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1¼ cups lager beer
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- Fresh cilantro, cheese, and lime for serving
Instructions
Prepare the chili paste with the spices and beef; sear the meat and onions, simmer with broth and other ingredients for several hours until tender.
Adapted from Once Upon a Chef
Chicken Verde Chili
Bright and packed with flavor, this chicken verde chili blends the unique tastes of Hatch chilies (or any green chili) with tender chicken for a refreshing take on chili.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 15 ounces roasted hatch chilies, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound chicken breast
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cans cannellini beans
- Juice of 2 limes
Instructions
Sauté the onion and jalapeño, blend with the roasted chilies, simmer with the chicken and beans, ending with lime juice for zesty brightness.
Recipe by Gretchen McKay
Cincinnati Chili, 4-Way
This unique version of chili hails from Cincinnati, often served over noodles and topped with shredded cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 16 ounces uncooked spaghetti
- Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions
Instructions
Cook beef with spices, simmer for a while, and serve over cooked spaghetti for a delicious twist.
Recipe by Gretchen McKay
Chili Oil Wontons
Spice and comfort meet in these wontons, filled with savory pork and tossed in a fiery sauce.
Filling Ingredients
- 8 ounces ground pork
- Napa cabbage
- Soy sauce, ginger, and seasonings
Sauce Ingredients
- Chili oil, minced garlic, Sichuan peppercorns
Instructions
Stuff and fold the wontons, cook quickly in boiling water, and toss in the sauce for a delightful kick.
Recipe adapted from The Woks of Life
Spicy Chorizo Chicken
A gumbo-like dish that marries the spicy chorizo with tender chicken thighs, perfect for sweeping away the winter chill.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound chorizo
- Fire-roasted tomatoes, peppers, and spices
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and enjoy after a few hours simmering for that deep flavor.
Conclusion
As you prepare for the impending snowstorm, consider whipping up any of these comforting chili recipes to warm both body and soul. Each dish promises hearty flavors that cater to a variety of tastes while being a great way to gather friends and family around the table. So gear up, get your grocery list ready, and don’t forget the toppings!
For more details on how to create these dishes, follow Gretchen McKay for updates on your favorite recipes!
Stay warm and happy cooking!
