Zippy’s chili recipe originates from a popular restaurant chain in Hawaii. It is renowned for its diverse menu, featuring a variety of local and international dishes. Among its most famous offerings is the hearty and flavorful chili that has become a staple for both locals and visitors. Our copycat Zippy’s chili recipe is magical. It is versatile, comforting, and a must-try. Use it and recreate the restaurant experience without leaving your home.
Copycat Zippy’s Chili Recipe
Ingredients
Ground Beef (1 lb.)
Zippy’s chili is known for its meaty richness. Ground beef is the perfect base for this recipe.
Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
The sweetness of sautéed onions adds depth and complexity to the chili.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile, providing a savory undertone.
Kidney Beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed)
Zippy’s chili is hearty and filling, and kidney beans contribute to both texture and substance.
Tomato Sauce (1 can – 15 oz.)
A rich tomato base is essential for the iconic Zippy’s chili flavor.
Tomato Paste (1/4 cup)
Tomato paste adds thickness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
Water (1 cup)
It balances the consistency of the chili.
Chili Powder (2 tbsp.)
This is the main spice that gives the chilli its distinct kick.
Cumin (1 tbsp., ground)
Cumin enhances the earthy and warm tones of the chilli.
Paprika (1 tsp)
It adds a smoky flavour and a touch of sweetness.
Oregano (1 tsp, dried)
Oregano offers a hint of herbal freshness. It also adds more structure to the flavor profile.
Bay Leaves (2)
You need bay leaves to infuse a subtle, aromatic flavor into the chili.
Salt and Pepper to taste
Adjust according to your preferences
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef
Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, until browned. Drain any excess fat when done.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Tomato Sauce and Paste
Pour in the tomato sauce and add the tomato paste, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to develop flavour.
Season the Base
Add chilli powder, paprika, dried oregano, bay leaves, cumin salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Introduce Beans and Water
Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans to the pot, followed by one cup of water. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and let the chilli simmer for 30-40 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld and intensify.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the chilli and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the chilli into bowls. You can garnish with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or sour cream for an extra touch.
Nutrition
Best Accompaniments for Zippy’s Chili Recipe
Pairing accompaniments with our copycat Zippy’s chili recipe is about creating a balance of flavors and textures that enhance, rather than overshadow, the main dish. The possibilities are endless, from the comforting feel of cornbread to the bold kick of jalapeños.
Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect chili accompaniment. Here are a few of our suggestions:
Cornbread: A Classic Choice
The origins of cornbread are deeply rooted in Southern cuisine. It is a staple accompaniment for chili thanks to its unique texture and slightly sweet flavor. The coarse cornmeal gives the bread a rustic crumb, which is excellent for soaking up the flavorful chili broth.
You can choose between various styles of cornbread to match your preferences. Consider baking it in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy exterior, and serve it warm with a pat of butter for an extra layer of indulgence.
Cheese
The cheese world offers a wide range of options to complement chili. Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, providing a sharp and savory contrast to the chili’s spices.
Monterey Jack adds a mild and buttery profile, while a Mexican cheese blend combines the best of both worlds.
Go for a high-quality aged cheese for a more intense flavor. You can enhance the melty goodness by broiling the cheese briefly. This creates a golden and gooey topping that adds a delightful richness to each spoonful.
Avocado
Avocado, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, is an excellent addition to our Zippy’s chili recipe. Sliced or diced avocado not only introduces a cooling element but also offers a buttery consistency that contrasts the heartiness of the dish.
Use ripe avocados that are at the peak of their flavor. You can also mash them and mix into the chili for a creamier consistency. This creates a luxurious and satisfying experience.
Sour Cream
Sour cream is a classic condiment that brings a cool and tangy note to the warm and spicy world of chilli. The smooth and creamy texture of sour cream helps mellow the heat. It is an excellent pick if you prefer a milder experience.
When serving, a generous dollop of sour cream on top of the chili adds a velvety richness and visually enhances the dish. Use full-fat sour cream for a more decadent touch.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb that adds a burst of freshness to chili. The herbaceous and citrusy cilantro notes complement the dish’s richness, creating a more complex flavor profile.
You can maximize its impact by chopping the cilantro and sprinkling it over the chili just before serving. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a suitable alternative.
Green Onions
Green onions, or scallions, contribute a crisp and mildly spicy flavor that pairs well with the heartiness of chili. Thinly sliced green onions can be used as a garnish. They add a pop of color and a subtle oniony kick to each bite.
Stirring chopped green onions into the chili during the cooking process also infuses their flavor into the dish, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Jalapeños or Hot Sauce
If you want an extra kick, jalapeños or hot sauce are the perfect additions. Scatter diced fresh jalapeños over the chilli to provide a burst of heat with each spoonful.
Hot sauce gives you better control over the spiciness level. Choose a hot sauce with complex flavors to enhance the overall taste without overwhelming the palate.