Deb's Southwestern 7 Bean Chili

Deb's Southwestern 7 Bean Chili: A Family Favorite

This chili recipe isn't just a meal; it's a tradition. It's a taste of home, a comforting hug in a bowl, and the star of many a Super Bowl Sunday gathering. This recipe, handed down through generations, has become a family staple, tweaked and perfected over time to satisfy even the most discerning palates – including my husband's and his notoriously picky friends! They practically beg for it, and believe me, that's saying something.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s not about exotic ingredients or complicated techniques; it’s about bringing together familiar flavors in a way that's both satisfying and unforgettable. The hearty blend of seven different beans provides a rich texture and depth of flavor that you won't find in any ordinary chili. The addition of corn and Texas Ranchero Grillin' beans, left undrained to add extra flavor, elevates the recipe to a whole new level. And the secret ingredient? A touch of Tabasco – just enough to add a pleasant kick without overpowering the overall taste. This chili is versatile, too. You can adjust the spice level to your liking, and it's just as delicious served with cornbread, tortilla chips, or even a simple side salad.

I remember countless Sundays spent in the kitchen with my family, the aroma of simmering chili filling the house. It was more than just a meal; it was a gathering place, a source of warmth and laughter, and a reminder of the simple joys of life. Now, I get to share that same feeling with my husband and his friends, creating lasting memories around a bowl of this delicious chili. The recipe has evolved a little over the years, reflecting our own tastes and preferences, but the heart of it remains the same: a comforting, flavorful, and utterly irresistible chili that brings people together.

More than just a recipe, it's a legacy. It's a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, the comforting smell of simmering spices, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. This chili represents more than just a culinary creation; it’s a symbol of warmth, connection, and the enduring power of simple, delicious food. And that's why, year after year, this recipe remains a cherished family favorite – a taste of home that’s always welcome.

I often find myself thinking about the origins of this recipe, the hands that have stirred it before mine, and the stories it holds within its rich, savory depths. Every spoonful is a journey through time, a reminder of the love and care that went into creating this culinary masterpiece. And I'm incredibly proud to carry on this tradition, sharing it with my husband, his friends, and anyone lucky enough to savor its comforting warmth.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and prepare to experience a chili unlike any other. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience, a story waiting to be told, one delicious spoonful at a time. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• In a 5 quart boiling pot or dutch oven combine Ground Beef, Onion, and Garlic over medium heat until hamburger is cooked through but not overdone.
• Using a large collander (drainer), add Both cans of Kidney beans, Ranch beans, Chili beans, Black Beans, and Pinto Beans together and rinse under cold water until water runs clear. DO NOT DRAIN CORN OR TEXAS RANCHERO GRILLIN BEANS. They add extra flavor to chili.
• When beef is cooked through add beans and remaining ingredients to the pot and stir enough so that it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan, until hot.