Aunt Mary'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, green peppers, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting gatherings and family dinners with bold spices and a hint of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped green pepper, chopped onion, minced garlic, and salt to the skillet. Cook for a short time until vegetables are slightly tender.
- Add tomato sauce, oregano, chili powder, water, Tabasco, and stir well.
- Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with sour cream or shredded Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you want to reduce the heat, use less chili powder and Tabasco. You can also add beans for extra texture and protein or substitute with lentils for a vegetarian version. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasonings as the chili simmers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili hot, optionally topped with sour cream or shredded Cheddar cheese for added creaminess. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over rice. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside a side of Hot Vegetable Salad or Baked Beans With Beef to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Chili contains roughly 958 calories, with 41g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (368% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2406mg per serving (105% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian option. If you prefer a slightly different flavor, try using shredded beef from a Marinated Pot Roast Of Beef.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by adding a tablespoon of cornmeal or masa harina. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens up. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans if you add them for extra thickness.
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).