Chilli Soup

Spicy Chili Beef Soup - A Comforting Delight

Are you dreaming of a soup that warms you from the inside, tantalizes your taste buds, and brings a dash of adventure to your bowl? Then spicy chili beef soup is the perfect choice! This recipe not only combines intense flavors, but it is also a dish rich in tradition, with deep roots in cuisines that evoke the comfort and warmth of home.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 300 g ground beef (or a mix of meats, if you prefer)
- 2 bell peppers (1 red and 1 green), diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, diced (or 200 g canned tomatoes)
- 1 can of beans (preferably red or black), drained and rinsed
- 1-2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 l water or vegetable broth
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh or dried chili peppers (optional, for extra flavor and heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by preparing all the ingredients. Chop the vegetables finely, ensuring the peppers and celery are of uniform size for even cooking. If using fresh tomatoes, I recommend blanching them for a few seconds to easily peel off the skin.

2. Cooking the Meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat without oil, allowing it to release its natural juices. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. When the meat turns brown, it is ready to be combined with the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a separate pan, add the olive oil and sauté the onion for a few minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the peppers and celery and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.

4. Combining the Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables to the meat and mix everything well. Add the tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, and water (or vegetable broth), stirring to combine the flavors.

5. Seasoning the Soup: Now comes the exciting part! Add the chili powder and chili peppers (if you want extra heat) to the mix. Here, it's important to adjust the amount of chili to your taste. If you like a spicier soup, feel free to be generous!

6. Boiling the Soup: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. This simmering time will allow the flavors to meld and intensify. Don’t forget to stir occasionally. At the end, taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

7. Serving: Your spicy chili soup is ready! Serve it hot, with salty crackers, grated cheese on top, and a dollop of sour cream for a creamy and delicious contrast. These add extra texture and enriched flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

- Accompaniments: You can accompany the soup with a fresh green salad or nachos for a complete culinary experience.
- Variations: You can customize your soup by adding corn, carrots, or even a few slices of avocado for extra freshness. If you are vegetarian, replace the meat with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Enhancements: You can add spices like cumin or oregano to create a deeper flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious! Ground beef provides essential proteins, while the vegetables bring a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Beans are an excellent source of fiber, supporting digestion. Additionally, peppers and tomatoes are packed with antioxidants, beneficial for your overall health.

Calories: A serving of soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken is an excellent alternative and will add a different flavor.

2. Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, the soup freezes very well! Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.

3. How can I reduce the spice level?
You can reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the chili peppers or use a milder variety.

A Personal Note

This spicy chili soup reminds me of cool evenings spent with friends around the table, laughing and savoring every bite. Whether you prepare it for a quiet night at home or for a festive meal, it is a dish that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Try this recipe today and let yourself be carried away by its spicy flavor! Enjoy!