Fruity Chili Recipe

The ingredient list gives 2 tablespoons in total, and the method divides the seasoning between the sauce and the beef. Split what you have, using about half in each, and add more at the end if you want it stronger.

You can, but the apple and peach are what make it this recipe rather than an ordinary chili. If you drop them, cut back the tablespoon of sugar as well, since the fruit and the sugar are both doing the sweetening.

A mild green chilli or half a green bell pepper with a pinch more cayenne gives you the same gentle heat. Banana peppers are sweet rather than fiery, so avoid swapping in anything hot without cutting the cayenne.

Yes, but brown the beef and the onion in a skillet first as the method does, then transfer everything across. Add the apple, peach and banana pepper near the end, since they only need a minute or two and will collapse over a long cook.

Yes, it freezes well and the flavour settles as it sits. Cool it fully before it goes in the freezer, and reheat gently, adding a splash of water if the beans have thickened it too far.

Rice, cornbread or a baked potato all suit it, and sour cream on top takes the edge off the heat. Given it serves eight, something plain and starchy stretches it furthest.