I’ve always been a fan of Pride of the West’s incredible flavors and hearty dishes. There’s something truly special about their signature meals that make you crave more. When I first tasted their [specific dish, if known], I knew I had to try recreating it at home.
After some experimentation, I finally nailed a copycat recipe that captures all the deliciousness you love. It’s simpler than you might think and perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Pride of the West, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Tools And Equipment
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Perfect for browning the ground beef and simmering the flavors together.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers with precision.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of spices and liquids.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without damaging your cookware.
- Can Opener: Necessary for opening canned diced tomatoes and kidney beans efficiently.
- Grater: If grating your own cheddar cheese, a sturdy grater makes the job easier.
- Serving Bowl: To present the hearty dish attractively when it’s ready to serve.
- Ladle: Great for portioning the stew or chili into bowls smoothly.
Directions
Recreating the beloved Pride of the West dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to bring this hearty meal to your kitchen.
Prep
- Chop the Vegetables: I dice one onion and mince three cloves of garlic. Then, I slice one red bell pepper into small pieces.
- Prepare the Beef: I measure out one pound of ground beef and set it aside.
- Gather Spices: I ensure all necessary spices are ready, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
Cook
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, I heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. I add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Sauté the Vegetables: I add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. I cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Spices: I stir in two tablespoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of cumin, and one teaspoon of paprika. I cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: I add a can of diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, and two cups of beef broth. I mix in two tablespoons of tomato paste and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Assemble
- Simmer the Dish: I reduce the heat and let the stew or chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning: I taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: I ladle the dish into serving bowls and top each with shredded cheddar cheese and freshly chopped cilantro.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing parts of the Pride of the West copycat recipe ahead of time can save you valuable minutes on busy days and enhance the flavors even more. Here’s how I like to organize my prep:
Ingredient Preparation
- Chop Vegetables: Dice the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Measure Spices: Combine all the spices—such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder—in a small bowl. Keep the spice mix in a sealed jar to maintain freshness.
- Prepare Beans and Tomatoes: Open and drain the kidney beans and diced tomatoes. You can rinse the beans and store both in separate containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Assembling Components
| Task | Time Required | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Chopping vegetables | 15 minutes | Up to 3 days (fridge) |
| Measuring spices | 5 minutes | Up to 6 months (jar) |
| Preparing beans | 10 minutes | Up to 4 days (fridge) |
Advanced Steps
- Ground Beef: Cook the ground beef in advance by browning it in a skillet. Once cooled, refrigerate the beef for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. This step reduces cooking time when you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shred the cheddar cheese ahead of time and store it in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Final Assembly Tips
When you’re ready to make the dish:
- Reheat the Beef: If frozen, thaw the ground beef overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat before adding it to your recipe.
- Combine Ingredients: With all components prepared, you can quickly combine them in your large skillet or Dutch oven, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the dish simmers.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you’ll streamline your cooking process and ensure that every bite of your Pride of the West copycat recipe is as delicious as possible.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Pride of the West copycat dish with these serving ideas:
Complementary Sides
- Warm Cornbread: Bake a batch of sweet cornbread to pair perfectly with the savory chili.
- Steamed Rice: Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal.
- Crusty Bread: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up every delicious bite.
Toppings and Garnishes
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Add extra cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
- Sour Cream: Top with a dollop of sour cream to balance the spices.
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Jalapeño Slices: Include jalapeño slices for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage | Reason |
|---|---|
| Craft Beer | The bitterness complements the chili’s spice. |
| Red Wine | A bold Cabernet enhances the rich flavors. |
Presentation Tips
- Rustic Bowls: Serve the chili in large, rustic bowls to highlight its hearty nature.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add grilled vegetables on the side for added texture and flavor.
Make It a Complete Meal
- Add a Side of Grilled Corn: Grill corn on the cob and serve alongside the chili for a smoky addition.
- Garlic Bread: Offer garlic bread as a flavorful side that complements the dish perfectly.
Conclusion
Creating my own version of Pride of the West has been a delightful experience. There’s something satisfying about crafting a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. I hope this copycat recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty and flavorful. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
