Chili Johns Chili
Chili Johns Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, suet, and a blend of spices, complemented by the richness of unsweetened baking chocolate and dried red peppers. Perfect for chili lovers, it offers a bold, smoky profile with a hint of heat, ideal for a comforting meal with sides like beans or spaghetti.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry ground beef and suet until almost done.
- Add diced onion, unsweetened baking chocolate, dried crumbled red peppers, salt, garlic powder, paprika, white pepper, red pepper, chili pepper, cumin powder, and water.
- Simmer the mixture for 2 hours.
- Serve over kidney beans or spaghetti prepared separately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef and suet in a cast iron skillet. If you're short on time, ground pork can be substituted for the suet. Adjust the spice levels by adding more chili pepper or using fresh chilies for a kick. This chili pairs well with cornbread for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili over kidney beans or spaghetti, as suggested, for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of shredded cheese and diced green onions on top adds a nice touch. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced dinner. This dish also works well as a filling for burritos or tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the chili thickens upon cooling, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Johns Chili contains roughly 938 calories, with 13g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (661% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2323mg per serving (101% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and consider serving it with a side of cornbread for a delightful meal.
What can I substitute for ground suet?
If you can't find ground suet, ground pork or even butter can be used as substitutes. While suet adds a unique richness, these alternatives will still yield a delicious chili. Just be mindful of the fat content and adjust accordingly.
Is this chili spicy?
The level of spice in this chili can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili pepper and red pepper. Conversely, for more heat, feel free to add additional spices or fresh chilies. Taste as you go!
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).