Can You Make Chili Without Tomato Sauce or Paste?

Yes, you can definitely make chili without relying on tomato sauce or paste! This versatile recipe uses a range of alternative ingredients to achieve rich flavor and texture. Here's a simple and satisfying chili recipe that showcases the versatility of chili without tomatoes.

Chili Without Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef, turkey, or plant-based protein 1 can (15 oz) beans (such as kidney, black, or pinto), drained and rinsed 1 onion, diced 2-3 cloves garlic, minced 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) 1-2 jalape?os or other chili peppers, diced (optional for heat) 2 cups beef or vegetable broth 1-2 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon paprika Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

Optional Toppings

Shredded cheese Sour cream Chopped cilantro Avocado

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and jalape?os. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Meat

Add the ground meat to the pot and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Add Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes to let the spices bloom.

Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the broth and add the beans and corn. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it thicker, let it simmer longer.

Serve

Ladle the chili into bowls and add your favorite toppings.

Tips

Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Use Salsa: If you have salsa on hand, it can be a great substitute for tomato sauce, adding both flavor and moisture. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste by adding more heat or different flavors as you like.

This chili will be hearty and flavorful, proving that you can create a delicious meal without relying on tomato products!