Chili Anyone Can Eat!
A hearty, flavorful chili with tender ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for a comforting meal that suits casual gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet until the meat is browned.
- Drain excess fat and transfer the cooked mixture to a large pan.
- Add red kidney beans, tomato sauce, salt, chili powder, and crushed bay leaves to the pan.
- Simmer the chili uncovered for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also adjust the chili powder to suit your heat preference; start with 1 tablespoon and add more if desired. For a thicker chili, include some masa harina or cornmeal during the simmering process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad. For a fun twist, try serving it over baked potatoes or with tortilla chips for a hearty snack. Enjoy alongside American recipes like Barbecue Beef Shortribs for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Anyone Can Eat! contains roughly 1154 calories, with 35g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (336% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2541mg per serving (110% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving.
What can I use instead of red kidney beans?
You can substitute red kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure that whatever beans you use are canned and rinsed to reduce sodium.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking the onions and peppers. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust according to your heat tolerance!
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).