Chili Tomorrow
A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water, beef bouillon cubes, and ground round to a boil; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and chill well so you can skim off all the fat, then return to the stove.
- Add all ingredients except the green beans and simmer for 1 hour.
- Just before serving, add the beans, undrained if you like, and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade beef broth instead of water and bouillon cubes. You can also substitute ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegan version. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Remember to adjust the seasoning if using different meat types.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of One Step Salad for a refreshing contrast. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra creaminess. For a fun twist, serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This chili freezes well, so consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Tomorrow contains roughly 758 calories, with 77g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (363% of the Daily Value), protein (154% of the Daily Value), and iron (123% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1071mg per serving (47% 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?
Yes, this chili can be made a day ahead. In fact, the flavors often improve after resting overnight. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. Reheat thoroughly before serving, and feel free to adjust the seasoning as needed after reheating.
What type of beans should I use?
You can use any type of beans, but kidney or black beans are traditional choices for chili. Canned beans are convenient; just be sure to drain and rinse them if you prefer a lighter broth. If you want to add more fiber and nutrition, consider incorporating chickpeas or lentils.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add heat, you can include chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. If you enjoy smoky flavors, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance to ensure it's just right for you.
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).