Beef Or Veggie Chili Gf Recipe

Prepare vegetables

Heat a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil. When shimmering, add diced onion, bell peppers, and carrot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown, about 6–8 minutes.

Add garlic and protein

Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Push vegetables to the side and add the ground beef (or crumbled extra-firm tofu for veggie version). Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until beef is browned and no longer pink (5–7 minutes) or tofu is lightly browned (4–5 minutes). Season with 1 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp black pepper as it browns.

Lower heat to medium-low. Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground coriander (if using), and cayenne. Stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices and coat the meat and vegetables, releasing the aromatics.

Add tomato paste to the pot and cook, stirring, 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly. Then add canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, gluten-free broth, Worcestershire, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let simmer gently for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

After the initial simmer, stir in drained kidney beans, black beans, and corn. If using the optional dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder, add it now and stir until melted and incorporated. Continue to simmer, uncovered or partially covered, for an additional 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. Stir occasionally.

Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If the chili is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar or a splash more broth to balance. Stir in chopped cilantro if using.

Serve hot with lime wedges for squeezing over individual bowls. Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, or avocado (ensure toppings are gluten-free if needed).