Indulge in the rich and flavorful world of Montana Wildfire Chili – a thick and chunky chili with a fiery kick that will awaken your taste buds. Donna Evaro from Casper, Wyoming, shares her cherished recipe that promises to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. This chili is perfect when topped with shredded cheddar and served alongside a side of comforting cornbread.
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
PREPARATION:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and peppers over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a 4- or 5-quart slow cooker. Stir in the chili beans, drained stewed tomatoes, tomato juice, minced jalapenos, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the chili is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
YIELD: 8 servings (2½ quarts)
COOKING TIME: 5 hours
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- When handling hot peppers like jalapenos, it’s best to wear disposable gloves to avoid the oils from burning your skin. Remember to avoid touching your face after handling hot peppers.
Embrace the bold flavors of the Wild West with Montana Wildfire Chili – a hearty and fiery concoction that will ignite your taste buds. From Casper, Wyoming, Donna Evaro shares her cherished recipe that promises to be a tantalizing journey of flavors, sure to warm your soul.
This chili is a masterpiece of culinary creativity, showcasing the delicious marriage of ground beef, sweet onions, and vibrant sweet red and yellow peppers. The inclusion of undrained chili beans and drained stewed tomatoes adds delightful textures and richness to the dish.
To elevate the heat, minced jalapeno peppers and garlic make their entrance, infusing the chili with a spicy zing that sets it apart from the ordinary. The medley of spices, including ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper, enhances the depth of flavors and transports you to the untamed landscapes of the American West.
For a truly indulgent experience, serve Montana Wildfire Chili topped with shredded cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully into the steaming bowl of goodness. Pair it with a side of comforting cornbread, and you have a satisfying and complete meal that will leave you fully satisfied.
As the slow cooker gently simmers this chili to perfection, the aromas will fill your kitchen with the enticing promise of a robust and flavorsome dish. The tender beef and vegetables meld together, creating a mouthwatering chili that is perfect for gatherings, game days, or simply cozy nights in.
Montana Wildfire Chili exemplifies the heartiness and warmth that chili recipes are known for. It’s a delightful reminder of how beans and flavorful ingredients can elevate a dish with just a little meat into a truly filling and nourishing meal.
From the heart of the Wild West to your own dining table, savor the bold and savory flavors of Montana Wildfire Chili. This recipe not only pays homage to the cowboy spirit but also offers a taste of the rugged charm and adventurous culinary traditions that have shaped the American frontier.




