Cha-Cha Chile For Fine
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to meat lovers and chili enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a pan and drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce and chili powder mix to the beef.
- Squash up the whole peeled tomatoes with your hand and add to the pan.
- Add kidney beans, squished tomatoes, and beer to the mixture.
- Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Serve the chili topped with shredded Cheddar cheese or mushrooms if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions and garlic when browning the beef. If you don’t have kidney beans, black beans or pinto beans can be great substitutes. Adjust the chili powder mix according to your spice preference, or use fresh chilies for a kick. This chili can also be enhanced with a dollop of sour cream or avocado on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded Cheddar cheese or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips, making it a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of lettuce for a fresh salad. This dish is also a great addition to any gathering, complementing other Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just ensure it's cooled completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cha-Cha Chile For Fine contains roughly 448 calories, with 31g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 can be made a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together even more. Just refrigerate it after cooking and reheat before serving. It's perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners easier.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also add more beans and vegetables to enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it hearty.
What can I use instead of beer?
If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with beef broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor. Alternatively, using a splash of vinegar or lime juice can provide acidity, balancing the dish nicely.
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).