Big Boone'S Chili
Big Boone's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for gatherings and those craving a spicy, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Puree the tomatoes in a blender.
- Pour water and tomatoes into a 1 1/2 or 2-gallon kettle and begin cooking over medium heat.
- Brown the beef and onions in shortening; add to the tomatoes.
- Add garlic, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, salt, chili powder, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer.
- Simmer for 2 1/3 to 3 hours.
- Add water if it gets too thick during cooking.
- Add coriander 30 minutes before the chili is ready.
- Mix flour with cold water or tomato juice to form a paste.
- Add the flour mixture to the chili near the end of cooking to thicken; stir thoroughly.
- Best if made at least 1 day before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use beef chuck instead of lean beef, and consider adding diced bell peppers for extra texture. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and cayenne pepper. A splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the taste as well. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as the chili simmers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Big Boone's Chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and diced onions on top for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Minted Confetti Cole Slaw for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding cornbread or tortilla chips on the side, and don't forget a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to avoid splatters and heat in short intervals, stirring between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big Boone'S Chili contains roughly 865 calories, with 35g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (196% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 708mg per serving (31% 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?
Yes, this chili tastes even better when made a day ahead. The flavors meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving, and feel free to adjust the consistency with a little water if it thickens too much.
What can I use instead of beef?
For a healthier or vegetarian option, you can substitute the beef with lentils or a mix of beans such as black beans and kidney beans. For a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, keeping the cooking times similar.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To adjust the spice level, start with less chili powder and cayenne pepper, and add more gradually as it cooks. You can also include a tablespoon of sugar to balance the heat or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy spicier dishes.
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).