Introduction
Chili is a beloved comfort food, and making it in an Instant Pot can save you time while still delivering rich flavors. This recipe from Fresh Off The Grid combines beef, beans, bacon, and a blend of spices to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a game day gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this Instant Pot Chili is sure to delight.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 slices bacon
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon ground pasilla or ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1½ cups beef stock, divided
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can small red beans, drained and rinsed
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Making this Instant Pot Chili is a straightforward process that involves cooking bacon, browning ground beef, sautéing some aromatics, and combining all ingredients in the Instant Pot. Follow the steps listed, and you’ll have a delicious bowl of chili ready in no time. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Bacon:
– Cut the bacon in half and add it to the Instant Pot.
– Select the “Sauté” function (normal setting).
– Cook the bacon until the fat renders and it begins to crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
– Remove the bacon and set it aside.
– Once cooled, roughly chop the bacon while the beef is browning in the next step.
Brown the Ground Beef:
– Add the ground beef to the Instant Pot.
– Cook on one side until deeply browned, about 4-5 minutes.
– Avoid stirring to allow proper browning.
– Remove the beef and set it aside. It’s okay if it’s still slightly pink.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
– Add the diced onion to the Instant Pot.
– Sauté until it begins to turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
Add Tomato Paste and Spices:
– Stir in the tomato paste, chile powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and salt.
– Cook until the spices become fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Deglaze the Pot:
– Pour in ½ cup of beef stock.
– Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent a burn notice.
Combine Remaining Ingredients:
– Add the remaining 1 cup of beef stock and the unsweetened cocoa powder.
– Stir in the drained pinto and small red beans.
– Return the browned ground beef and chopped bacon to the pot.
– Break apart any large chunks of beef and stir to combine all ingredients.
Pressure Cook:
– Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.”
– Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set it to cook for 20 minutes on high pressure.
Release Pressure:
– Once the cooking time is complete, you can either perform a quick release or allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes.
Serve:
– Ladle the chili into bowls.
– Top with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
Bacon Alternatives:
If you prefer not to use bacon, you can omit it or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Bean Variations:
Feel free to swap the beans with black beans or kidney beans based on your preference.
Cooking Time Adjustment:
If you’re adding more ingredients or adapting the recipe, you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage:
This chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Cook techniques
Cooking Bacon
Cut the bacon into halves and use the Sauté function on the Instant Pot to cook until crisp. This process helps to render the fat, enhancing the flavor of the chili.
Brown the Ground Beef
Ensure you brown the ground beef on one side without stirring for optimal flavor development. This step locks in the juices and adds depth to the dish.
Sautéing Onions and Garlic
Sauté the diced onion until golden brown and follow with minced garlic to create a flavorful base. This technique builds aromatic layers in your chili.
Adding Tomato Paste and Spices
Mix in the tomato paste plus spices and cook briefly to allow the flavors to bloom. This step ensures that the spices are well incorporated and enhances the overall taste.
Deglazing the Pot
After adding liquid to the pot, scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This prevents burning and adds rich flavor to your chili.
Pressure Cooking
Use the Pressure Cook function on high pressure for quick cooking. This method allows flavors to meld and the ingredients to become tender in a fraction of the time.
Pressure Release Methods
Choose between a quick release or natural release for the pressure after cooking. Each method affects the texture of the chili; quick release may give a softer result.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a different flavor profile.
What if I don’t have beef stock?
You can use chicken stock or vegetable broth as a substitute, or simply add water, keeping in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I add more beans or vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more beans, such as black beans, or vegetables like bell peppers and corn for extra nutrition and texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of chile powder or opting for milder spices according to your taste preference.
Can I freeze the chili for later use?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
Conclusion
The Instant Pot Chili is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and wholesome ingredients to create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. The use of bacon adds a depth of flavor, while the combination of spices and beans results in a satisfying and nutritious experience. With the convenience of an Instant Pot, this recipe not only saves time but also ensures a rich, well-developed chili that can be enjoyed by family and friends.
Vegetarian Chili
Replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version. Add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
Spicy Southwest Chili
Incorporate diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a fiery kick. Top with sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for a refreshing contrast.
Chili Mac
After cooking the chili, stir in cooked macaroni for a comforting chili mac dish. Finish with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
BBQ Chili
Add your favorite BBQ sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. Serve with cornbread or over baked potatoes for an unforgettable meal.
Breakfast Chili
Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage to your chili for a warm and filling breakfast dish. Serve it in a bowl topped with shredded cheese and green onions.
Chili with Sweet Potatoes
Incorporate diced sweet potatoes when adding the beans for a touch of sweetness and additional nutrients. The sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast to the chili’s spiciness.
