Chili con carne, often synonymous with a rich tomato base, can be surprisingly delicious without it! Omitting the tomato allows for a deeper exploration of other flavors, creating a chili that's both unique and intensely satisfying. This guide will walk you through creating a fantastic chili that skips the tomato sauce entirely, focusing on bold spices and hearty ingredients.
Why Skip the Tomato Sauce?
Many chili purists argue that a true chili shouldn't contain tomatoes. The omission allows other flavors—especially the spices—to shine through, resulting in a bolder, more complex taste. It also opens up possibilities for unique flavor profiles, moving beyond the familiar tang of tomato. This method is especially appealing to those seeking a deeper, richer chili experience.
Essential Ingredients for a Tomato-Free Chili
The foundation of a great tomato-free chili lies in carefully selecting high-quality ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- Meat: 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and chuck), 1 lb ground pork, or even a combination of both. You can also substitute with shredded beef, pork, or even vegetarian crumbles for a meatless option.
- Onions & Peppers: 2 large onions, chopped; 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped; and 2-3 jalapeños (or more, depending on spice preference), minced. These provide the base for the chili's flavor foundation.
- Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15-ounce) can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed. Black beans, or a mix of different beans, also work well.
- Broth: 4 cups beef broth. Chicken broth can be substituted, but beef broth provides a richer flavor profile.
- Spices: This is where the magic happens! Experiment with these to find your perfect blend:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chili Without Tomato Sauce
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onions and peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced jalapeños.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to release their aromas and deepen their flavor. This step is crucial for a flavorful chili.
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Simmer the Chili: Pour in the beef broth, add the beans, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. Stir occasionally.
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Season and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper to suit your preferences.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.
What are some good substitutions for tomato sauce in chili?
While tomato sauce is a common ingredient in chili, many alternatives can provide a unique flavor profile. Puréed roasted red peppers, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even a simple blend of vegetable broth and pureed carrots can offer a delicious substitute. Experimenting with different ingredients is key to discovering your preferred taste.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground meat with vegetarian crumbles or a hearty mix of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the vegetarian nature of the recipe.
How long can I store leftover chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What are some good toppings for this chili?
The beauty of chili is its versatility. Popular toppings include shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack), sour cream or Greek yogurt, avocado slices, chopped onions, cilantro, and tortilla chips.
This tomato-free chili recipe offers a fresh perspective on a classic dish, allowing you to explore a world of flavor beyond the familiar. Enjoy the journey!
