Beer Joint Chili
A hearty, smoky chili with tender meat and rich tomato flavors, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers seeking a bold, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry tallow in a large pot or skillet.
- Add chopped onions and mashed garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add cubed meat and cook in its own juice until almost done.
- Stir in a small bottle of Gebhardt chili powder or less.
- Add black pepper and salt to taste.
- Pour in Spanish-style tomato sauce and water.
- Simmer for 30 minutes or less, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer to the pot while simmering. If you want a spicier kick, you can substitute the Gebhardt chili powder with a hotter variety or add diced jalapeños. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with hearty beans and follow the same cooking process for a delicious vegan chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Beer Joint Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Mamaw'S Blueberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor and garnish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beer Joint Chili contains roughly 1043 calories, with 13g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 673mg per serving (29% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for cubed cheap roast, you can use any cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking, like chuck roast or brisket. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also be used.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder chili, start with less chili powder and gradually add more to taste. You can also omit any additional spices and serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing individual customization.
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).