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Wendy’s Chili

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 to 1 ½ hours (stovetop) or 3 to 4 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds fresh ground beef
  • 1 quart tomato juice
  • 1 (29 ounce) can tomato purée
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained
  • 1 medium-large onion, chopped
  • ½ cup diced celery
  • ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
  • ¼ cup chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, to add at the end)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Ground Beef:
    • In a large skillet, brown the fresh ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a 6-quart pot, combine the cooked beef and all the other ingredients (except the optional butter if you choose to use it).
  3. Simmer on Stovetop:
    • If cooking on the stovetop, simmer the chili covered for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes. Maintain a simmer, which is lower than “low” heat. If you’re concerned about evaporation, you can cover it partially or stir more frequently.
  4. Slow Cooker Method:
    • Alternatively, you can cook the chili in a slow cooker on low for 3 to 4 hours. This method allows for a longer, slower cooking process.
  5. Optional Butter:
    • At the end of cooking, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the chili. This will help mellow the flavors and provide a richer texture.
  6. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once the chili is done cooking and has reached your desired consistency, serve it hot. It pairs perfectly with Jalapeno Popper Cornbread Muffins.

Tips:

  • Cooking on a simmer with small bubbles is essential to prevent overcooking or excessive evaporation.
  • Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the right level of simmer.
  • If cooking uncovered makes you nervous, stir more frequently to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade Wendy’s Chili copycat, a perfect comfort food for cooler weather!

 

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