Mom's Heart-Filled Chili Recipe: A little love to slow down busy lives.

Growing up as the second oldest of four kids, I had a front-row seat to the hustle and bustle of family life. My mom worked tirelessly in the local hospital’s intensive care unit, clocking in 6 nights a week. Because of her demanding schedule, family dinners were a rare occurrence—except for one special day a week. No matter how exhausted she was, Mom always made sure, we would all gather around the dinner table and share a meal. It was sort of a rule you weren’t allowed to say no to the one day a week mom would cook. (unless you wanted to make mom cry)

Mom's Chili Recipe

Our home life wasn’t easy. We had a stepdad with anger management issues, and school wasn’t much better with the same type of bullies, when everywhere is rough on you it becomes hard to feel safe at all. But there was one beacon of safety and love our weekly dinner. Despite her fatigue, Mom would set everything aside to prepare a meal for us. That moment we sat down together felt like a sanctuary, a time when we could put aside our worries and enjoy the warmth of family.

One of my favorite dishes from those dinners was Mom's Chili. This chili was a labor of love. In a life that was often rushed, when it came to making her chili for the kids, Mom took her time handling each step with care. The smell of spices filled the air, wrapping us in a comforting embrace, reminding us that no matter how chaotic life was, there was always love waiting for us in her arms.

Fast forward twenty years, and my mom's life hasn’t slowed down one bit. She’s still a nurse taking care of other people’s family members full time, while caring for our grandmother, and is always just a phone call away when we need guidance on this daunting journey of adulthood. Somehow, she still manages to find time to watch some of her grandkids and work on cars with her husband. Her unwavering dedication is nothing short of inspiring.

Over time, each of us kids has taken Mom’s chili recipe and added our own twists, adapting it to our growing families and busy lives. When we all come together, Mom still can make that same beloved chili that warms our hearts (if my little sister and I don’t beat her to it). The recipe may change with each generation but just like the main ingredients the love and patience will always be there. 

As I share Our Mom’s Chili recipe with you, I invite you to create your own family memories around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a big family gathering, may this dish remind you all of the love that brings you together.

Mom's Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Ground Beef

• 1 can Black Beans (drained & rinsed)

• 1 can Red Kidney Beans (drained & rinsed)

• 1 cup Diced Yellow Onion

• 1 Red Bell Pepper, medium dice

• 1 Green Bell Pepper, medium dice

• 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, medium dice

• 1 can Tomato Puree

• Pinch of Salt

• Pinch of Black Pepper

• 1 1/2 Tbsp Chili Powder

• 2 Cloves Minced Garlic

• 1 Tbsp Tomato Paste

Additional Add-in Options:

• 1 can Sweet Corn

• 2 Jalapenos (diced and seeded)

• 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce

• 1/4 cup Hot Sauce

Directions:

1. Brown your ground beef in a saute pan on Med-High

2. Add 1 Tbsp butter or Oil into a large saucepan and heat on Med

3. Add your Garlic, Onion, and Bell Peppers to your Saucepan and cook until onions are soft and translucent

4. Drain your ground beef using a mesh strainer

5. Add your ground beef to the Vegetable mix

6. Add In your tomato paste and stir until well combined (should have a red tint)

7. Add in your Tomato Puree

8. Add in Your Beans and set to simmer for 10 minutes

9. Scoop into a bowl and serve with Cheese and Crackers (Ritz are Mom's Favorites)

Feeds 5-7 people (serving size 8-10 oz).

Mom's chili not only nourished our bodies but also filled our hearts with a sense of security and belonging. Each bite was a reminder of the unwavering love and dedication she poured into every aspect of her life.

So, whether you're a busy parent looking for a comforting meal to bring the family together or a college student seeking budget-friendly yet delicious eats, Mom's Chili Recipe is sure to warm your hearts and satisfy your taste buds. The simplicity of the ingredients coupled with the rich flavors make it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Next time you find yourself craving a taste of home or simply in need of a dish that speaks to the soul, whip up a batch of our mom's chili. Let the aroma fill your kitchen, bringing back memories of love, warmth, and comfort – reminding us all that, indeed, Love is Patient.