Brick Chili
A hearty, savory chili featuring ground beef, suet, and bold spices, perfect for satisfying large gatherings or hearty family meals with rich, warming flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook suet and ground beef together until done.
- Add tomatoes and spices to the cooked mixture.
- Gradually add oats to boiling ingredients, 1/2 cup at a time.
- Cook for 2 or 3 minutes, stirring deeply and long.
- Pour into bread pans and let cool.
- Cut into 1-pound blocks, then wrap and freeze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a little extra depth, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a few diced jalapeños for heat. If you prefer a leaner chili, substitute half of the ground beef with turkey or chicken. To enhance flavor, consider using smoked paprika instead of regular. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, as different brands of spices can vary in strength.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Brick Chili in bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top. It pairs well with cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve over baked potatoes or alongside Tina'S Pizza Casserole for a satisfying dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brick Chili contains roughly 4172 calories, with 61g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 368g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (312% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (262% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (205% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 a different type of meat in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter version. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as leaner meats may cook faster.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also experiment with different chili powders that have varying heat levels to suit your taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef and suet with a combination of beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Increase the spices to enhance the flavor, and add vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture.
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).