Montana Wildfire Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the essence of the American West. This chili recipe pays homage to the rugged and untamed wilderness of Montana, where bold flavors and robust ingredients come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Packed with ground beef, a variety of colorful peppers, beans, and aromatic spices, this chili is sure to warm your soul and ignite your taste buds.

Chili has a long history in the United States, and it is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American West. The origins of chili can be traced back to the cowboys and settlers who roamed the vast landscapes of states like Texas and Montana. These pioneers relied on simple ingredients, such as meat and spices, to create nourishing meals that could sustain them during their journeys.

Montana Wildfire Chili draws inspiration from the wild and unpredictable nature of the state’s landscape, as well as the hearty meals prepared by those who called Montana home. The combination of ground beef, vibrant sweet peppers, chili beans, and an array of spices captures the essence of the untamed wilderness and the robust flavors cherished in the region.

PREP: 30 MIN.

COOK: 5 HOURS

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS (2½ QUARTS)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped
• 1 medium sweet red pepper, finely chopped
• 1 medium sweet yellow pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cans (16 ounces each) chili beans, undrained
• 2 cans (14½ ounces each) stewed tomatoes, drained
• ½ cup tomato juice
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and sweet peppers over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef and vegetables to a 4- or 5-quart slow cooker.
3. Stir in the chili beans, drained stewed tomatoes, tomato juice, minced jalapeno peppers, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chili to heat through.
5. Ladle the Montana Wildfire Chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy this robust and comforting chili as a main course or alongside cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Montana Wildfire Chili embodies the spirit of the American West and brings the flavors of the untamed wilderness to your plate. With its hearty ingredients and bold spices, this chili is perfect for cold winter days, gatherings with friends and family, or for satisfying your craving for a taste of the wild. Let the aroma and flavors of this chili transport you to the breathtaking landscapes of Montana, where the spirit of adventure and the love for hearty meals collide.