Carol'S Chicago Chili
Carol's Chicago Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish with tender ground beef, beans, and bold spices, perfect for comfort food lovers and chili enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the ground beef, then add the chopped onions and simmer for a few minutes.
- Place all the ingredients into a slow cooker.
- Cook on low setting for 9 to 10 hours.
- After cooking, stir the chili and check the seasonings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with a bit of Worcestershire sauce or adding a dash of hot sauce for heat. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Feel free to add more vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition. For a thicker chili, you can mix in some masa harina at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carol's Chicago Chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a green salad or with a side of rice, reminiscent of dishes like Easy Hamburger And Rice Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Chicago Chili contains roughly 1891 calories, with 125g protein, 256g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (374% of the Daily Value), protein (249% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2559mg per serving (111% 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 vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with additional beans or lentils. You can also add chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based products to maintain the flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start by reducing the chili powder and black pepper, then taste the chili as it cooks. You can always add more spices later, but it's harder to tone it down. For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Absolutely! Making chili in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare the chili as directed, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheating it the next day will enhance the taste, making it even more delicious.
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).