Chili(D'Alessandro'S)
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and a blend of spices including chili powder and Worcestershire sauce. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, its rich taste and spicy warmth make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 tsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1/2 c. onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 2/3 c. ketchup ⓘ
- 1/2 c. water ⓘ
- 1/4 c. celery, chopped ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 c. tomato juice ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 c. canned tomatoes, crushed
- 1 tsp. vinegar ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) can kidney beans with liquid ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in butter until translucent.
- Add ground beef and brown lightly; drain off excess fat.
- Add chili powder, ketchup, water, chopped celery, lemon juice, tomato juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, crushed tomatoes, vinegar, and dry mustard. Stir well.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Cool slightly.
- Add canned kidney beans with liquid, remaining tomato juice, and chili powder. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for an additional hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you're short on time, canned tomatoes can be substituted with fresh tomatoes; just peel and chop them before adding. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. This recipe is inspired by classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or with warm tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for game day or casual gatherings, just like Mary Ann's Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency and heat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(D'Alessandro'S) contains roughly 147 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 810mg per serving (35% 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?
Yes, this chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply make it ahead of time, let it cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider using black beans or lentils instead of meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as plant-based proteins may require less time to cook.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. For a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or use sweet bell peppers instead. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.
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).