The Perfect Chilli: Veggie or Meat

Brief: An easy and delicious recipe for Chilli. You can make it Veggie or with meat, your choice. Enjoy

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium red onion, chopped
1 large red or orange pepper, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 can or 2 ears of corn (just the kernels)
½ teaspoon salt
4 cloves garlic, pressed
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 large can (28 ounces) or 2 small cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes with their juices OR Slice 3 medium sized Tomatoes and combine them with ½ cup of tomato/pasta sauce.
2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans or kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnishing
lime juice, to taste. I normally use ½ or 1 small lime.
Garnishes: chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, slightly crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese.

Process

Step 1.  Put the oil in a large, heavy bottomed pot. Add 2 cloves of garlic (pressed), onions, bell peppers, carrots & salt. Cook on medium until the veggies are tender, 5-8 minutes.
***While the veggies are cooking prep your broth. I use bouillon and the best way to get it to dissolve quickly is to chop it up into tiny squares and get it in warm water. Stir until fully dissolved. If your broth is premade and comes in a container……good for you, disregard this advice.***
Step 2.  Add the other 2 garlic cloves (pressed), chilli powder, cumin, smoked paprika & oregano. Stir constantly until it’s all mixed together, 1-2 minutes.
Step 3.  Add in the *Veggie broth, bay leaf, corn, diced tomatoes with juices and both kinds of beans. Stir until everything is mixed well.
Step 4.  Bring your chilli pot to a gentle simmer and leave it for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5.  For the perfect chilli texture, remove 2 cups from your chilli and blend it to a smooth liquid. Then add it back into your pot and stir it well. Add salt to taste & You’re done!
Step 6.  Get all of your garnishes ready in bowls and let your guests or family decide what to add!

Extra!
If you like this recipe but want to add beef, easy! Slow cook some ground beef in a pan and add it in, or place it in a bowl alongside the garnishes so it can be easily added by anyone who wants it!