Here's an awesome chili recipe that utilizes reconstituted dry peppers for depth of flavor and ground beef for richness. This recipe will give you a hearty, flavorful chili with just the right amount of spice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 5 dried ancho chilies
• 3 dried guajillo chilies
• 2 dried chipotle chilies (for some smokiness and heat)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water for reconstituting peppers)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional, for a thicker chili)
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Reconstitute the Peppers:

   • Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chilies.
   • Heat 2 cups of beef broth (or water) until it simmers, then remove from heat.
   • Soak the chilies in this hot liquid for about 20-30 minutes until they are soft.
   • After soaking, blend the chilies with the soaking liquid until smooth. Strain if you prefer a smoother texture. This will be your chili base.

2. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned, remove beef with a slotted spoon to a bowl, leaving some fat in the pot.

3. Saute Aromatics:

   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, cooking until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, letting it cook for a minute to caramelize slightly.
   • Pour in the chili puree from the blender. Add diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and coriander.

5. Simmer:

   • Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. If you're using beans, add them now.
   • Let the chili simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or spices if desired. If it's too thick, you can add more beef broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

7. Serve:

   • Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

This chili is great for a cold day, perfect for game nights, or just when you're craving something comforting and spicy. Enjoy!