"Chill Out" Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with beans, ground pork, and warming spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying any craving for a spicy, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook meat, onion, and garlic in vegetable oil in a large saucepan, stirring frequently, just until meat loses its pink color (about 10 minutes).
- Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, and salt over the meat mixture; mix well to coat all ingredients.
- Add kidney beans, black beans, picante sauce, kernel corn, and remaining ingredients; mix well.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Ladle into bowls; top with sour cream or chopped green onions.
- Serve with crusty cornbread for a complete meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the pork tenderloin with extra beans or lentils. You can also add bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies. If you prefer a spicier chili, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Make sure to soak dried beans overnight if using them instead of canned for better texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with sour cream or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty cornbread for a complete meal. For a fun appetizer, consider serving with a side of Rotel Cheese And Meat Dip. This chili also goes well with a fresh salad for a lighter touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Chill Out" Chili contains roughly 36 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 552mg per serving (24% 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 together. Prepare it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and consider adding a little broth to loosen it if it thickens.
What can I use instead of pork tenderloin?
You can substitute the pork tenderloin with ground turkey, beef, or chicken for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or additional beans to maintain a hearty texture while keeping it meat-free.
How can I adjust the spice level of this chili?
To adjust the spice level, start with a smaller amount of chili powder and add more to taste as it cooks. You can also add fresh or pickled jalapeños for heat or omit the spices altogether for a milder dish.
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).