📖 Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Cut 1.5 pounds of beef chuck into 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.
2. Sear the Beef: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until browned. This step is crucial for developin' rich, deep flavors. Don't skip it!
3. Sauté Aromatics: Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add 1 diced large onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should smell fragrant, not acrid.
4. Add Spices: Stir in 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. The spices will bloom and release their aromas, addin' depth to the chili.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold!
6. Add Beans and Broth: Add one 15-ounce can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed, and one 15-ounce can of black beans, drained and rinsed, to the pot. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer: Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. I've let mine go for 3 hours before – even better!
8. Adjust Seasoning: After simmerin', taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to suit your preference.
9. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a dollop of guacamole. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, too. Don't forget a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for dippin'!
10. For an extra layer of flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate during the last 30 minutes of simmering. It adds a subtle richness that's hard to resist. This is my secret weapon!