Exciting and Delicious Recipes Inspired by the Game of Catan

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of carrots, diced
  • 1 cup of celery, diced
  • 1 pound of ground beef
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded (for serving)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Green onions, sliced (for serving)

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it's no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve the chili in bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for cooking the chili
  • Spoon - for stirring the ingredients
  • Knife - for chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery
  • Measuring cups - for measuring the ingredients accurately
  • Can opener - for opening the cans of diced tomatoes and kidney beans
  • Grater - for shredding the cheddar cheese
  • Bowls - for serving the chili
  • Serving spoons - for serving the chili

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add extra beans and vegetables for a meat-free alternative.
  • Spicy Kick: Add jalapeno peppers or crushed red pepper flakes to increase the spiciness of the chili.
  • Chunkier Texture: Use diced beef or stew meat instead of ground beef for a chunkier texture.
  • Extra Veggies: Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
  • Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist.
  • Bean Variety: Experiment with different types of beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or white beans.
  • Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for added freshness.
  • Hearty Grains: Serve the chili over cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous for a heartier meal.
  • Toppings Galore: Offer a variety of toppings such as avocado slices, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, or hot sauce to customize each bowl.

Recipe overview

This hearty, flavorful Catan chili is the perfect comfort food for game night. Combining ground beef, onions, celery, and carrots with a rich blend of spices, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Canned kidney beans and diced tomatoes add texture and depth to this chili, while a topping of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions deliver a finishing touch that's both visually appealing and delicious. Expect a savory, warming bowl of chili with a bit of kick - a perfect match for a cozy evening of strategizing and trading in Catan. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer to the game, this Catan chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Common questions

  1. Can I use vegetable oil instead of olive oil? Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil for olive oil in this recipe.
  2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe.
  3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan? To make this recipe vegetarian, you can omit the ground beef and replace it with plant-based ground meat substitute or additional vegetables. To make it vegan, ensure that the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth are vegan-friendly alternatives.
  4. Can I use different types of beans? Yes, you can use different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans if you prefer.
  5. How spicy is this chili? The chili powder adds some mild heat to the dish, but it's not overly spicy. If you prefer it spicier, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, the chili can be frozen for later consumption. Allow it to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Chili con carne, more commonly known simply as "chili", is a popular dish in American cuisine with a complex and disputed history. Some believe it originated in Mexico, while others argue it was born in Texas. One thing is certain: the first written mention of chili came from J.C. Clopper, a Texan who, in the 1850s, observed poor families chopping up whatever meat they had and stewing it with peppers and spices. This concoction would later evolve into the hearty bowl of chili we know and love today. Interestingly, original recipes didn't include beans—a controversial ingredient among chili enthusiasts. Texans claim true chili should never include beans, while others argue beans add a delicious and nutritious component. Regardless of its disputed origins and ingredients, this dish has certainly carved out a place in the hearty, soul-warming segment of American comfort food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.