Chili Con Carne(Zesty "South Of The Border" Specialty)
A hearty and flavorful chili con carne featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and a zesty blend of spices, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook beef and onion in hot butter or drippings until browned.
- Add kidney beans and tomato soup; cook for 10 minutes.
- Make a paste of chili powder, flour, water, and salt; blend in.
- Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for 45 minutes.
- Serve hot with crackers or fried corn meal mush.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you're out of chili powder, a combination of paprika and cayenne can work in a pinch. Opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish. Also, sautéing the onions until they're caramelized can add a rich depth of flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Mexican recipes like Taco Quickie or can be enjoyed with tortilla chips for a crunchy texture. Consider serving alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Carne(Zesty "South Of The Border" Specialty) contains roughly 316 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or additional beans for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to enhance the flavor without meat.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the added liquid.
How can I enhance the flavor of my chili?
For deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of cumin. Additionally, letting the chili simmer longer can help the flavors meld together beautifully, 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).