This is the Best Crock Pot Chili Recipe

When it comes to chili, there are many different people who lay claim to its origins. But one thing is for sure: it’s not Mexican. Although it is a spicy dish, Mexicans claim that it is an imitation of their food, but not the real deal.

It is more likely the dish was inspired by Spanish cuisine and further developed by Texans in the 1800’s, although everyone from Texas millionaires to Texas prisoners try to take credit for being the first to perfect the recipe to make it the one that is known and loved by many.

Chili can be made using several different ingredients. Texans claim a true Texas recipe will be always made with meat and will not contain beans or any other vegetables that would be considered filler ingredients. However, our recipe contains beans and no meat- making it a great meal for vegetarians and super healthy as well.

Not only are beans a great source of fiber, vitamins and minerals, the other vegetables and spices in the dish have antioxidant effects that can help to boost health and immunity.

When considering how to prepare chili, we think the crockpot is the best method. The crockpot is an easy way to combine ingredients and let them simmer throughout the day, so the flavor is evenly distributed and intensifies.

It is also a convenient way to cook. Just throw in everything you need in the morning, turn your crockpot on, and look forward to coming home to a delicious home-cooked meal.

We’ve also made things interesting by serving our recipe in a thick, crusty bread bowl. This will help to make the meal a bit heartier.

So, gather your ingredients and get your family ready for an easy to make dish they are sure to love. This crock pot chili recipe will have chili lovers everywhere begging for more.

Crock Pot Chili

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Rinse dry beans and place in the crock pot with a generous amount of water.

2. Cook on low overnight.

3. Drain the water from the pot.

4.  Heat oil and saute the onions, garlic and red pepper flakes.

5.  Add cumin and chili powder. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.

6.  Add mixture to crock pot along with all remaining ingredients except canned beans. Stir well.

7. Cook on low 8 hours. Add canned beans an hour before serving.

Side Dishes to Serve with Chili

Chili alone not enough for you? Try some of these side dish suggestions to help complete your meal:

• Corn muffins. Corn muffins are a popular alternative to plain bread. You can buy a pre-made mix from the store, or make them from scratch. You can even dip them in the chili for added flavor!
• Refried beans. If you want to keep the Texmex theme going, try making some refried beans to have as a side dish with your chili! Refried beans are definitely not a side dish you'll have often, so now is a great time to have them.
• Mini tacos. If you're up for it, making mini tacos can be a great way to complete your chili dish. Grab some mini tortillas from the store, bring together all the ingredient options you want to give your family, and serve!
• Nachos. Nachos are so simple to make, yet loved by so many. Melt some cheese to go with them, or just dip them in the chili itself! Give everyone their own bowl of chips, or have a bowl in the center of the table for everyone to pick from.
• Salad. If you want to keep it simple and healthy, salad is a great choice. Go for a taco salad to keep the theme going, or try a simple house salad if you want something easy. Top with your favorite dressing!
• Corn pudding. This one is certainly different! Corn pudding combines whole-kernel corn and creamed corn for a truly interesting side dish. It'll go great with your crock pot chili, and will be a unique side dish to try!
• Mexican rice. Even though chili isn't exactly Mexican, Mexican rice will fit well enough with the theme! Plain white or brown rice can get boring after a while; preparing some Mexican rice is a great way to spice things up.