A Bowl of Comfort: My Go-To Chili Recipe

Hello valuable mamas!

There are days when the world feels like it’s spinning a little too fast—school runs, work deadlines, endless to-do lists. And then, there are evenings when you decide to slow it all down. For me, that moment often begins with a heavy pot on the stove and the promise of something hearty bubbling away inside. Chili is my little ritual of calm, a dish that whispers: “Take your time, savor this.”

I love how it starts simple—just olive oil shimmering in the pan, onions softening like golden silk, garlic releasing its perfume. Then come the colors: red and orange peppers, bright as autumn leaves, tumbling in like confetti. It’s a celebration in a pot, and you’re the guest of honor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 500 g minced meat

• 3–4 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red pepper & 1 orange pepper, sliced

• A handful of fresh coriander, minced

• 1 can red or black beans

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• Tomato passata (enough to cover the meat)

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 can corn

• Chicken broth (about 1 cup)

• 1 tbsp cumin

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

  
  

How to Make It

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and garlic, let them dance until fragrant.

2. Brown the meat: Toss in the minced meat and cook until it loses its pink blush.

3. Add the colors: Peppers join the party next—because chili should look as good as it tastes.

4. Spice it up: Sprinkle cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens.

5. Build the base: Stir in tomato paste, passata, sugar, and chicken broth. Let it simmer gently.

6. Final touches: Add beans, corn, and coriander. Simmer until everything is cozy and flavors have mingled beautifully.

   
   

Serving Suggestion

Top with a dollop of sour cream, squeeze some lemon, and maybe add a few tortilla chips for crunch. Pair with a good conversation or a quiet moment—your choice.And here’s a little bonus: served along with rice, this chili is just perfect for the next day’s school lunch box. A comforting surprise for little tummies!

Why This Chili Matters

Because it’s never just about the food. It’s about the laughter that bubbles up around the table, the stories shared over steaming bowls, the comfort of knowing that for tonight, everyone is nourished—in body and soul. This chili is my way of saying: “You’re home. You’re loved. Slow down and taste this moment.”

I hope you enjoy it!

Love, Katerina