From Hundred, West Virginia to Your Table: Unveiling the Legendary Chili Recipe
When it comes to hearty comfort food, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of chili.
Today, we embark on a culinary journey to Hundred, West Virginia, where a cherished family recipe has been passed down for generations. Join us as we delve into the heartwarming story behind this legendary chili and share the beloved recipe that has brought joy to countless gatherings. Get ready to savor the flavors of Hundred, West Virginia, as we reveal the secrets to creating a massive 55-gallon batch of this beloved chili.
Recipe: Hundred, West Virginia's Legendary Chili
Ingredients:
(Note: The following recipe is scaled for a large 55-gallon batch. Adjust quantities accordingly for smaller portions.)
- - 20 pounds ground beef
- - 10 onions, finely diced
- - 10 green bell peppers, finely diced
- - 1 head of garlic, minced
- - 10 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- - 10 cans (15 ounces each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- - 2 cups tomato paste
- - 4 tablespoons chili powder
- - 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- - 2 tablespoons paprika
- - 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- - 2 teaspoons salt
- - 2 teaspoons black pepper
- - Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- - Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and cornbread for serving
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chili Base:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a series of pots, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease, if necessary.
- Add the diced onions, diced green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot(s). Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
2. Building the Flavor:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and tomato paste, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the spices into the chili base.
- For those seeking an extra kick, add hot sauce to taste, adjusting the heat level according to your preference.
3. Simmering to Perfection:
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot(s) partially, allowing steam to escape.
- Simmer the chili, stirring occasionally, for a minimum of 2 hours, but preferably longer to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the chili will become.
4. Serving the Chili:
- Ladle the piping hot chili into bowls, topping each serving with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
- Accompany the chili with warm cornbread, perfect for soaking up every last bit of deliciousness.
Hundred, West Virginia's legendary chili recipe is a testament to the power of cherished family traditions and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones.
Through generations of culinary expertise, this recipe has become a symbol of comfort, warmth, and community in the small town of Hundred. Now, you too can recreate the magic of this iconic chili by following the carefully crafted steps and savoring its robust flavors. So, gather your ingredients, channel the spirit of Hundred, West Virginia, and embark on a culinary adventure that will fill your home with the aroma of tradition and bring smiles to the faces of all who taste this beloved chili.
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