Slow Cooker Balsamic Chili

Discover the comforting goodness of Savory Slow Cooker Balsamic Chili, a delightful twist on a classic dish that combines hearty ingredients with the unique flavor of balsamic vinegar. This easy recipe features tender meat, fresh vegetables, and creamy beans, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Ideal for busy nights or cozy gatherings, this chili promises rich aromas and satisfying tastes, making it a nourishing meal that brings everyone together. Try it today!

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Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (choose red or green), diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1/3 cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado

Instructions

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and promptly transfer the cooked meat to the slow cooker.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the finely diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Once ready, transfer them into the slow cooker with the browned meat.

Combine Remaining Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes along with their juice, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, broth, and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Slow Cooking: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili will develop complex flavors as it cooks, resulting in a hearty and savory dish.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the chili and make any necessary adjustments to the seasonings. If you'd like a touch more sweetness, consider drizzling in a bit more balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor profile.

Serve and Garnish: Ladle the warm chili into bowls and elevate the dish with your choice of optional toppings such as shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sprinkled chopped green onions, or fresh diced avocado to add extra creaminess and flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 8 hrs | 6 servings

- Presentation Tips: For a delightful presentation, serve the chili in rustic bowls and arrange the toppings on a side platter, allowing each guest to customize their bowl to their liking. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.