Chili(Makes 3 Servings)
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, beans, and a blend of spicy and savory seasonings, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a frying pan.
- Cook ground beef until lightly browned.
- Push beef to one side of the pan.
- Add chopped onion and celery to the pan.
- Cook until vegetables are soft.
- Drain excess fat from the pan.
- Add remaining ingredients: cayenne, sugar, pepper, chili powder, water, catsup, chili hot beans, and salt.
- Mix everything well.
- Simmer the chili for 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Additionally, adjust the cayenne and chili powder according to your heat preference. To enhance the texture, try incorporating some chopped bell peppers or diced carrots, reminiscent of the flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or rice. This dish is perfect for gatherings, and you can even offer toppings like jalapeños or avocado to customize each bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, transfer to a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 3 months. When reheating, either thaw in the refrigerator overnight or microwave in short intervals, stirring often, until heated through. Reheat on the stovetop for an even better texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Makes 3 Servings) contains roughly 40 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 729mg per serving (32% 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?
Absolutely! Making chili a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Many say it tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily replace ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like tempeh or textured vegetable protein. For a hearty vegetarian option, try using black beans or kidney beans, ensuring to adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired texture.
How can I thicken my chili?
If you find your chili too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the chili, cooking for a few more minutes until it thickens. Adding more beans can also help achieve a thicker consistency.
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).