easy-beef-chili

Easy Beef Chili

2 pounds ground beef, preferably 85-percent lean
2 medium yellow onions, chopped (3 cups)
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped (1 tablespoon)
1 jalapeno (seeds and ribs removed for less heat, if desired), finely chopped (4 teaspoons)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons Dutch-process cocoa powder
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (28 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Sour cream and finely sliced chives or scallions, for serving

Step 1

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook, breaking up with the back of a spoon, until cooked through, about 6 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer beef to paper towels to drain. Discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from pan.
Step 2

Return pot to medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, jalapeno, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; cook until onions soften, about 6 minutes. Add chili powder, cocoa, and tomato paste; cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes more.
Step 3

Add tomatoes, broth, and cooked beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, partially covered, until thickened slightly, 25 to 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; serve with sour cream and chives.