Aunt Brenda'S Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with seasoned meat, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for warming up gatherings and family dinners with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the chopped meat and drain the grease.
- Sprinkle Chili-O seasoning over the meat and stir to combine.
- Add the drained kidney beans, Manwich sauce, crushed tomatoes, chopped green pepper, and chopped small onion to the pot.
- Cook on medium heat for 30 minutes or longer, stirring occasionally.
- Add chili powder to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meat with diced garlic or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chopped meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference; start with a small amount and increase to taste. This chili pairs beautifully with Strawberry Pecan Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a side of cornbread or over baked potatoes for a comforting meal. It also goes well with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Shoe Peg Corn-Vegetable Salad for a colorful and nutritious side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. This chili freezes well, too; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Brenda'S Chili contains roughly 797 calories, with 67g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), protein (134% of the Daily Value), and iron (128% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2105mg per serving (92% 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 use different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can mix in black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure to rinse and drain canned beans to reduce sodium content.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicier chili powder blend or include hot sauce during cooking. Adjust gradually to achieve your desired heat.
Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this chili is perfect for meal prep! It refrigerates and freezes well, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Just portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners, and reheat as needed.
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).