If you’ve ever visited Hawaii, you’ve probably heard of Zippy’s. This iconic local chain has been serving up delicious comfort food since 1966, but nothing on their menu is quite as beloved as their famous chili. Now, you might be thinking, “Can I really make Zippy’s chili at home?” The answer is a resounding yes! And trust me, it’s easier than you think.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to whip up a pot of this mouthwatering chili. So, let’s dive in and bring a little taste of Hawaii to your kitchen.

A Little Background on Zippy’s Chili

Zippy’s was founded by brothers Francis and Charles Higa in Honolulu, and since then, it has become a Hawaiian institution. The secret to their success? Comfort food that feels like a warm hug. Their chili is no exception—it’s hearty, flavorful, and has a unique blend of spices that make it truly special.

What You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients. Don’t worry, you won’t need anything fancy, just some good-quality basics and a few spices.

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds of ground beef: Aim for a mix of 80% lean and 20% fat for the perfect balance.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: This adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: For a bit of color and crunch.
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better.
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Essential for that classic chili texture.
• 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce: The base of your chili.
• 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes: Adds some chunkiness.
• 2 cups of beef broth: Helps to meld all the flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami kick.

Spice Mix

• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 bay leaves

Optional Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar: For a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

First things first, chop that onion and bell pepper, and mince your garlic. It’s easier to have everything ready before you start cooking. Trust me, it makes the process much smoother.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned all over. This should take about 7-10 minutes. As it cooks, break it apart with a wooden spoon so you don’t end up with big clumps.

Step 3: Cook the Veggies

Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onions, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing by now.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Beans

Now, pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Then, add the drained kidney beans. These beans give the chili that hearty texture we all love.

Step 5: Spice It Up

Time to add the magic! Mix in your chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. If you’re using the optional brown sugar and apple cider vinegar, toss them in now too. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Let It Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer you let it simmer, the better it gets. If it thickens too much, just add a bit more beef broth.

Also read: Coffee Loophole Recipe: The Ultimate Guide

Serving Suggestions

There are so many ways to enjoy Zippy’s chili:

• Chili and Rice: The classic way to enjoy it. Serve a big ladleful of chili over a bed of steamed white rice.
• Chili Dogs: Top hot dogs with chili, shredded cheese, and diced onions. Perfect for a game day snack.
• Chili Fries: Pour chili over a plate of crispy French fries, then sprinkle with cheese and jalapeños.
• Chili Bowl: Enjoy a bowl on its own, garnished with sour cream, shredded cheese, and green onions.

Also read: San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe: A Timeless Classic

Tips for the Best Chili

1. Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality beef make a big difference.
2. Adjust the Heat: Like it spicy? Add more cayenne or a diced jalapeño.
3. Simmer Time: Let it cook for at least an hour, but two hours is even better.
4. Make Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day. Make it in advance and reheat.
5. Freeze for Later: Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.

Bringing Hawaii Home

Recreating Zippy’s famous chili at home is like bringing a piece of Hawaii into your kitchen. It’s not just about the taste—it’s about the warmth and comfort that comes with it. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day or sharing it with friends and family, this chili is sure to become a favorite.

So, grab your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to impress your taste buds with a dish that’s as close to Zippy’s as you can get without hopping on a plane. Enjoy!

For more information about Zippy’s and their menu, visit their official website.