American Chili
A hearty and flavorful American chili combining ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and sliced onion in oleo until beef loses its pink color.
- Add canned stewed tomatoes, red kidney beans, chopped celery, salt, and hot pepper sauce to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add chili powder and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef with spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but adjust the cooking time. Adding a touch of cocoa powder can enhance the depth of flavor, making it an enticing take on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Corn Bread With Hamburger for a comforting meal. Consider adding a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for added texture. A simple side salad can also balance the richness of the chili, making for a well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of American Chili contains roughly 276 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a delicious result.
What can I add to make the chili spicier?
To increase the spiciness of your chili, add diced jalapeños or other hot peppers when cooking. You can also use a spicier hot pepper sauce or increase the amount of chili powder. Tasting as you go is key, so adjust to your heat preference.
Can I substitute the kidney beans with another type?
Absolutely! While red kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas. Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor, but they will all work well in this chili recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).