Cal'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with rich spices and tender meat, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for gatherings or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chili meat lightly in a skillet.
- Pour off excess fat from the meat.
- Add chili powder, garlic, flour, salt, paprika, black pepper, oregano, sugar, comino, and red pepper to the meat.
- Pour in 2 quarts of water.
- Mix the ingredients well.
- Simmer the chili for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a combination of meats, such as beef and pork. If you can't find chili powder, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and cumin can substitute. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper. For added depth, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cal's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Homemade 'Cracker Jack' for a fun twist on a classic meal. For sides, consider cornbread or tortilla chips to complement the dish and add texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. If the chili thickens too much, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cal'S Chili contains roughly 2100 calories, with 106g protein, 369g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (760% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (212% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2846mg per serving (124% 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 Cal's Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, adding the water last. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Is this chili recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted easily. The recipe includes a dash of red pepper, which adds heat, but you can increase or decrease this amount based on your preference. For a milder chili, you might omit the red pepper entirely.
Can I freeze Cal's Chili for later?
Absolutely! Cal's Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
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).