A hearty and flavorful chili recipe perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot before adding vegetables to enhance their flavor.
Add the diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned.
Break up the beef into small pieces for even cooking.
Stir in the salsa, tomato paste, water, chili powder, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, dried parsley, bay leaves, and chipotle peppers.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Check occasionally to ensure the chili doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
Mix the masa harina with a small amount of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the chili.
This step adds a subtle corn flavor and thickens the chili.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Taste frequently to ensure the seasoning is to your preference.
Remove the bay leaves and serve the chili hot, garnished as desired.
Popular garnishes include shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.