crock pot chili?

[deannanb]

Do I have to brown the meat first to make crock pot chili?
our gas is off right now (being serviced) and I can't use the gas stove.

thanks!

[Pennylane]

In the recipe that I make, yes you do.

Ann

[newbiemom]

I've read that it's never really necessarily, but it adds to flavor and looks.

[MamaKath]

Meat that is browned will look brown, otherwise the meat may look more grey. It also allows you to drain off more of the fat. If you do chili in the crock pot, you need to let it cool to scoop off the fat from the top.

[egoldber]

You don't have to, but it does make for a better texture.

[maestramommy]

I never do.

[kransden]

It would taste better, but in your circumstances, I would make it all in the crockpot and drain off the grease later.