LAMB AND WHITE BEAN CHILI

Lamb and White Bean Chili is a savory and hearty dish that offers a delicious twist on the classic chili recipe. This flavorful meal combines tender ground lamb with creamy white beans, creating a rich and comforting stew. The addition of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika gives the chili a warm, earthy depth, while ingredients like tomatoes and bell peppers add sweetness and acidity. This chili is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete and comforting meal that will please any crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Lamb: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, white beans, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the chili is thickened to your liking.
6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Lamb and White Bean Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings a unique twist to traditional chili, offering a rich and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the blend of spices and tender lamb for a satisfying culinary experience.