Wendy’s Chili

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 to 1 ½ hours (stovetop) or 3 to 4 hours (slow cooker)
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop or Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh ground beef
• 1 quart tomato juice
• 1 (29 ounce) can tomato purée
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained
• 1 medium-large onion, chopped
• ½ cup diced celery
• ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
• ¼ cup chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, to add at the end)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, brown the fresh ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a 6-quart pot, combine the cooked beef and all the other ingredients (except the optional butter if you choose to use it).
3. Simmer on Stovetop:
   • If cooking on the stovetop, simmer the chili covered for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes. Maintain a simmer, which is lower than “low” heat. If you’re concerned about evaporation, you can cover it partially or stir more frequently.
4. Slow Cooker Method:
   • Alternatively, you can cook the chili in a slow cooker on low for 3 to 4 hours. This method allows for a longer, slower cooking process.
5. Optional Butter:
   • At the end of cooking, you can add a tablespoon of butter to the chili. This will help mellow the flavors and provide a richer texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once the chili is done cooking and has reached your desired consistency, serve it hot. It pairs perfectly with Jalapeno Popper Cornbread Muffins.

Tips:

• Cooking on a simmer with small bubbles is essential to prevent overcooking or excessive evaporation.
• Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the right level of simmer.
• If cooking uncovered makes you nervous, stir more frequently to prevent sticking.

Enjoy your homemade Wendy’s Chili copycat, a perfect comfort food for cooler weather!