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Smoky Chipotle Chili with Cinnamon

This chili combines ground meat, beans, and vegetables simmered with smoky chipotle peppers and a touch of cinnamon, resulting in a hearty, thick stew with a complex flavor profile. The dish features a rich, spicy aroma with tender ingredients that develop a deep, savory taste and a robust, slightly chunky texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey or any ground meat
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon adds subtle sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce chopped finely
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the large pot over medium heat, then add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and starting to crisp, about 5-7 minutes, releasing a savory aroma.
  2. Add the diced onion to the pot and stir well, cooking until translucent and soft, around 3-4 minutes. You should notice a gentle sizzle and the onion turning clear.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm, pungent aroma.
  4. Mix in the smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and chopped chipotle peppers, stirring to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Let the spices toast slightly, releasing their fragrant oils.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and add the broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
  6. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop a rich, smoky depth.
  7. Uncover the pot and stir in the rinsed kidney beans, then cook uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly and warm the beans through.
  8. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, enhancing the smoky and spicy nuances.
  9. Once the chili is thickened and fragrant, turn off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes; the flavors will settle and deepen.
  10. Serve the chili hot in bowls, optionally garnished with fresh herbs, sour cream, or shredded cheese for extra richness.

Notes

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers. The chili flavors improve if made a day ahead and reheated. Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for variation.