Frisch’s Chili Recipe
Frisch’s Big Boy is known for its iconic chili, a comforting dish with a unique flavor profile. While the exact Frisch’s chili recipe is a well-guarded secret, you can create a delicious and similar version at home. This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes about 2 hours to prepare.
Frisch’s Chili Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1.5 pounds |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Kidney beans, drained | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Cocoa powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Saute Onions and Garlic
Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Sauce and Water
Pour in the can of tomato sauce and add one cup of water. Stir to combine.
4. Season the Chili
Mix in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
5. Incorporate Tomato Paste
Add tomato paste to the pot, stirring until it is fully incorporated into the mixture.
6. Introduce Kidney Beans
Drain the kidney beans and add them to the pot. Stir gently.
7. Toss in Bay Leaves
Place bay leaves into the chili mixture. These will add depth to the flavor.
8. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
9. Adjust Seasonings
Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
10. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- Serve the chili hot in bowls, and you can garnish it with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Tips
- For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Make the chili a day ahead and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight; this enhances the flavors.
- This chili is versatile and can be served over rice, pasta, baked potatoes, or with cornbread.
Conclusion
While this recipe captures the essence of Frisch’s chili, keep in mind that the exact blend of spices used by the restaurant may remain a secret. Adjustments to the seasonings can be made based on personal preference. Enjoy the warmth and hearty flavors of this homemade Frisch’s-inspired chili!
