Chili(Very Good)
A hearty, flavorful chili with lean beef, stewed tomatoes, and kidney beans, perfect for a comforting meal suited for family or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground lean beef and chopped onion in a pan.
- Drain all grease from the meat and onion mixture.
- Add chili powder, stewed tomatoes, and red kidney beans to the pan.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 hour to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding diced bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of stewed tomatoes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. This recipe can be adapted to various tastes, much like the Old West Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving with a side salad or tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for game days and gatherings, making it a staple in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. If the chili thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili(Very Good) contains roughly 531 calories, with 34g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 645mg per serving (28% 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! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat before serving for a quick and delicious meal.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or include crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust according to your heat preference for a customized chili experience.
What can I serve with chili?
Chili pairs well with various sides; consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. A fresh green salad or coleslaw adds a refreshing touch. For a fun twist, try topping baked potatoes with chili for a filling meal.
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).