Chili soup is one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal on a chilly evening or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, chili soup fits the bill perfectly. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can make your own delicious chili soup from scratch!
Why Chili Soup Is a Must-Try
Chili soup is a fantastic twist on traditional chili. It’s soupier, which means it’s lighter but still packed with all the rich, spicy flavors you love in chili. It’s a family favorite because it’s both kid-friendly and adult-approved. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list to get you started. Feel free to customize based on your taste and what you have on hand:
– Ground beef (or a mix of beef and sausage for extra flavor)
– Onion, diced
– Celery, chopped
– Green bell pepper, chopped
– Garlic, minced
– Canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Canned diced tomatoes
– Tomato soup or tomato juice (for a smooth base)
– Chili powder
– Cumin powder
– Salt and pepper
– Water or broth (to adjust consistency)
Optional toppings to elevate your chili soup:
– Shredded cheddar cheese
– Sour cream
– Chopped green onions
– Fresh parsley or cilantro
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chili Soup
1. Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once the meat is no longer pink, drain off excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onions, celery, green pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook until the onions turn translucent and the veggies soften, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your chili soup.
3. Add Beans and Tomatoes
Pour in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato soup or tomato juice. Stir everything together to combine well.
4. Season the Soup
Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. These spices give chili soup its signature bold and warm flavor. Adjust the amounts to suit your heat preference.
5. Simmer for Flavor
Add water or broth to reach your desired soup consistency. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about an hour. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the soup to thicken slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your chili soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions. Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chili Soup
– Use high-quality canned tomatoes and beans for a richer taste.
– Letting the soup sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors even more.
– For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra beans and vegetables like zucchini or corn.
– If you like it spicy, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
Why This Recipe Works
This chili soup recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and light. It’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans and beef, plus vitamins from the fresh vegetables. The combination of chili powder and cumin creates a warm, inviting flavor that’s perfect for any season. Plus, it’s easy to tweak to your liking, whether you want it spicier, milder, or loaded with extra veggies.
Chili soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s perfect for feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or cozying up after a long day. Once you try this recipe, it will likely become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delicious, hearty chili soup you create!