Barbara'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground meat, tomatoes, beans, and spicy jalapenos, perfect for comforting gatherings or quick weeknight dinners with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped jalapenos, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release flavors.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or cumin. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. You can also use diced tomatoes instead of crushed for a chunkier texture. Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapenos or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chili is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with warm bread rolls for a comforting meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like cornbread or a side salad for a complete dinner. Consider serving it alongside Hamburger-Rice Casserole for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Chili contains roughly 1182 calories, with 65g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (229% of the Daily Value), iron (130% of the Daily Value), and protein (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 972mg per serving (42% 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?
Yes, you can make this chili a day or two in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, and it will taste even better after a day in the fridge.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chopped jalapenos or include diced serrano peppers. You can also stir in some hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference for the perfect kick.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili is delicious on its own but is fantastic with accompaniments. Consider serving it with tortilla chips, cornbread, or a simple green salad. It also works well alongside dishes like Virginia Hot Dip for a varied spread.
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).