Original Tommy's Chili Copycat Recipe

Craving the rich, hearty flavor of Original Tommy's World Famous Chili? Now you can recreate that iconic taste at home with our Original Tommy's Chili Copycat Recipe. This beloved chili has been a staple at Tommy's Original Restaurant in Los Angeles since 1946, and now you can enjoy it anytime you want. Let's dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it your own.

Before we start, let's talk about what makes Original Tommy's Chili so special. It's a thick, meaty chili with a unique blend of spices that gives it a distinct, comforting flavor. It's not too spicy, but it's packed with flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Now, let's get started on our copycat recipe.

Ingredients and Preparation

The key to a great chili is in the ingredients and preparation. For this recipe, you'll need ground beef, onions, garlic, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and a few other spices. Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once the beef is cooked, add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are translucent. This will help to build the flavor base of your chili.

Spice Blend

Now, let's talk about the spice blend. This is where the magic happens. You'll need chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Combine these spices in a small bowl and set aside.

Once your onions and garlic are cooked, add the spice blend to the pot and stir to combine. This will help to toast the spices and bring out their flavors. Then, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Simmering and Thickening

Now it's time to let your chili simmer. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken.

If you find that your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl, then stir it into the chili. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the chili has reached your desired thickness.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your chili is cooked and thickened, it's time to serve it up. Original Tommy's Chili is typically served with shredded cheese, chopped onions, and sour cream. You can also add some crushed tortilla chips on top for a little crunch.

If you're feeling extra hungry, you can serve your chili over a bed of rice or with some warm cornbread on the side. No matter how you serve it, this chili is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze this chili for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Next time you're craving that classic Tommy's flavor, you can skip the drive-thru and make this Original Tommy's Chili Copycat Recipe at home. Enjoy!