Chili Con Carne Or Chili(For Weight Watchers)
A hearty and flavorful chili con carne featuring tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a bold blend of spices. Perfect for comforting meals, it suits family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a balanced mix of savory, spicy, and tangy notes that appeal to chili lovers and those seeking a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef in boiling salted water until it loses its red color.
- Drain and discard the liquid.
- Break up any large pieces of beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, combine the chopped onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic.
- Cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, adding 3 to 4 tablespoons of water if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Stir in chili powder, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, oregano, and bay leaves.
- Cook for 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked beef, kidney beans, chopped tomatoes, and tomato juice.
- Simmer uncovered, stirring often, until flavors meld and chili thickens.
- Divide evenly among 12 bowls and serve, optionally topped with extra onion.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Chili Con Carne, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also replace kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans. For a thicker chili, add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chili Con Carne hot, optionally topped with diced onions or shredded cheese. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or tortilla chips. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some rice. This dish also works well as a filling for nachos or in a burrito.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Carne Or Chili(For Weight Watchers) contains roughly 9 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, easy meal.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat to your chili, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or include a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spice.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare the dish and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving, and enjoy the rich flavors that develop overnight.
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).