A Hearty Chili Recipe to Delight a Crowd of 50

Introduction

Preparing a delicious chili to serve a large group can be a daunting task, but with the right recipe and preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. Below is a hearty chili recipe perfect for feeding 50 people. This crowd-pleasing dish is packed with flavor and warmth, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, events, or social gatherings. Whether you’re planning a large-scale party or a community gathering, this chili recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your guests.

Ingredients

Preparing chili for 50 people requires larger quantities of ingredients than traditional recipes. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 5 pounds ground beef
– 3 large onions, diced
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 5 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
– 3 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 green bell peppers, diced
– 1/2 cup chili powder
– 1/4 cup ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (optional)
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup cornmeal

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are tender.

2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).

3. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. In a small bowl, mix the cornmeal with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the chili to thicken the mixture. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.

5. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, cayenne pepper, or other spices to achieve the desired flavor.

6. Once the chili is ready, serve it hot with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or chopped cilantro.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
A: Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed. In fact, chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely! This chili freezes well, so you can portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and store them for future meals.

Q: Can I adjust the spice level?
A: Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to suit your preference and the spice tolerance of your guests.

Q: What are some serving suggestions?
A: Serve the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro, or even a side of cornbread for a complete meal experience.

Preparing a delicious chili for a large group doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this recipe and simple guidelines, you can confidently provide a satisfying and flavorful meal for your guests. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal event, this hearty chili is sure to be a hit.