Deep with complex flavor, smooth, and served on top of a hotdog or eaten solo in a bowl, nothing screams classic Americana quite like chili. Nowadays, you’ll find recipes teeming with a plethora of ingredients and numerous pots, all of which use up your precious free time and wreak havoc on your kitchen. But what if there was another way? Well, there is with this classic Chili Parlor Chili! This recipe is simple and super versatile, and what’s even better is that it tastes like you’ve been cooking it for hours.

While every country has its meat sauce, American chili has been a staple for many communities in different states. From Chili Queens serving cowboys in the flatland frontiers of Texas to frugal counter-service chili parlors staving off the strife of the Great Depression, chili has been a front-and-center affordable good eat. Mirroring the rich sauces of northern Mexican cuisine, chili relied on a deeply developed sauce to provide satiety when in reality, there was very little meat in the chili itself. During the Great Depression, many places added bulk by substituting some or half of the ground meat for cheaper ingredients like oatmeal. While Chili Queens are long gone and very few Depression-era chili parlors stand, the memory of smooth and saucy chili still rings loudly in everyone’s memory. Luckily, now you don’t have to reminisce about it; you can make this chili.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (90/10 or 80/20)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or puree
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili flakes
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and use a spoon or spatula to break up the meat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until most of the pink is gone.
2. Add the ingredients: Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, paprika, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat. Cover the pot and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom.
4. Season: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy.

Bonus Tip:

For a thicker chili, you can add a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will give your chili a richer texture and an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

This Classic Chili Parlor Chili is not just a dish; it’s a piece of American culinary history. Its rich, deep flavors and smooth texture make it perfect for topping hotdogs or enjoying on its own. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold day or a dish that will impress at a gathering, this chili is sure to be a hit. The simplicity and versatility of this recipe ensure that you can enjoy the timeless taste of chili without spending hours in the kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to make a dish that will warm your heart and soul. Happy cooking!