Alright, chili lovers, gather ’round! We’re diving into the world of Original Wendy Chili, the rich, robust recipe that Wendy’s fans swear by.
It’s that perfect mix of hearty meat, beans, and spices that warms you from the inside out. Plus, if you’re looking for something that’s not just tasty but also packs a healthy punch, this chili has that chill covered—loaded with protein and fiber! And guess what? You can whip it up in under an hour, making it a fabulous choice for quick weeknight meals.
Whether you’re gluten-free or just looking for a cozy comfort dish, learning how to make Wendy Chili at home is a game changer. So grab your apron, and let’s spice things up!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions:
Now, let’s talk about how to serve up this delicious chili. A classic way is to spoon it over some Zucchini Noodles with Pesto, giving you a fresh twist. Or, if you want something more comforting, toss in a hunk of cornbread or serve it with a side of Sweet Potato Fries for a touch of sweetness.
And don’t forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro elevates your bowl. Want to quench your thirst? Wash it down with a Refreshing Homemade Lemonade or a zingy Watermelon Sangria – both will cool your taste buds after every spicy bite.
Tips and Notes:
- Sourcing Ingredients: Use canned beans for maximum convenience. Drain and rinse them before adding to the chili.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegan-friendly twist.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some jalapeños!
- Storage: This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for future cravings.
Ready to take your chili game to the next level? Click to explore more mouth-watering recipes on the blog!
Original Wendy Chili
Equipment
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef - for richness and protein
- 1 can 14.5 oz tomato sauce - provides a delicious base
- 1 can 14.5 oz kidney beans - with liquid, add creaminess
- 1 can 14.5 oz pinto beans - with liquid, enhances flavor
- 1/2 cup diced onion - for sweetness and texture
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies - for a mild heat
- 1/4 cup diced celery - offers crunch
- 2 medium tomatoes - chopped (for freshness)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder - adds warmth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder - for depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon black pepper - to taste
- 2 teaspoons salt - balances flavor
- 1 cup water - to adjust consistency
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain off the fat.
- Using a fork, crumble the cooked beef into pea-size pieces.
- In a large pot, combine the beef plus all the remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer over low heat.
- Cook, stirring every 15 minutes, for 2 to 3 hours.
