California Pepper Chili

Total Time

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 70 min.

Makes

10 servings (2-1/2 quarts)

Updated: Oct. 12, 2022
In my opinion, this is the world's best chili! It features three meats in a peppery eye-opening broth. I've been a Taste of Home reader for 5 years...and I make something from my magazines almost every day. —Robyn Thompson Los Angeles, California

Ingredients

  • 1/2 pound bacon, diced
  • 2-1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 1-1/2 pounds pork stew meat, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 6 to 8 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped seeded fresh serrano chili peppers
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped seeded fresh poblano chili peppers
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped seeded fresh jalapeno peppers
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth
  • 7 plum tomatoes, chopped
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, optional

Directions

  1. In a Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving 3 tablespoons drippings.
  2. In the drippings, cook the beef, pork and onions until meat is no longer pink; drain. Add the garlic, peppers and seasonings; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato puree, broth and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 to 1-1/2 hours or until meat is tender. Garnish with reserved bacon and cheese if desired.