Remember informercials?!?

I can't recall the product...but one tagline sticks out in my head.

Just set it and...FORGET IT!

No, you have no idea what I'm talking about... What's an infomercial?!? 

Ok...I looked it up. That was the tagline for a rotisserie oven. 

Anyways, that's what a slow cooker makes me think of- simple, yet flavorful ingredients that you can just set and forget.

Chili is super simple and classic. Let's just call it-- it's basic. But, this basic dish has so much flavor and there are so many ways to easily customize. Plus, chili is considered a comfort food classic for a reason. With a slow cooker, all of the flavors marinate together over a few hours and the results are always amazing!

‍

How to Make the BEST Chili

True chili connoisseurs each have their own secret weapons. The secret to the best chili involves using a mystery ingredient. Some chefs will only reveal upon their death beds, but I've found a few of the most common.

Some of the most popular include...

• Beer
• Cocoa Powder
• Coffee
• Cinnamon
• Wine
• Masa harina
• Garam masala

‍

What's yours???

‍

‍

Ingredients in Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Ground Meat- beef, chicken, or turkey
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell Peppers
• Tomato Sauce
• Diced Tomatoes
• Beef Broth
• Chili Powder
• Onion Powder
• Cumin

‍

Slow Cooker Chili Variations

• Meat: beef, chicken, turkey, pork
• Veggies: onion, bell peppers, garlic, tomatoes, carrots, cauliflower, scallions
• Beans: kidney beans, black beans
• Sauce: tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth
• Toppings: tortilla chips, cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Can I make chili on the stovetop?

If you don't have a slow cooker, chili can also be made on the stove. Simply, brown the meat. Next, sauté the peppers, onions, garlic, and other veggies. Then, add everything to a large pot and simmer for 2-3 hours for the best flavor!

Can you put raw beef in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can put raw ground meat in a slow cooker. Given the 3+ hour cook time, the meat will have plenty of time to cook. With raw meat, cook on high for at least 4 hours or low for 8 hours to ensure the meat is fully cooked. Browning the meat prior to slow cooking will caramelize the meat, which leads to a richer flavor.

‍

‍

Craving more slow cooker meals???

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Slow Cooker Shredded BBQ Chicken

Slow Cooker Low Carb Beef Stew