Chinese Chili
Chinese Chili is a hearty, flavorful stew combining ground beef, vegetables, and Chinese-inspired seasonings. Its savory taste with a hint of spice makes it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a comforting and nutritious meal with a rich tomato and vegetable base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a large skillet or pot.
- Add the sliced celery, chopped green pepper, bean sprouts, green beans, mushrooms, and canned tomatoes.
- Season with garlic salt, salt, and chili powder.
- Cover and simmer the mixture for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha. If ground beef is not available, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. To enhance the flavor, let the chili sit overnight in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, much like in other hearty dishes such as Hamburger Chop Suey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinese Chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or a side of teriyaki steak strips for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Chili contains roughly 208 calories, with 9g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (149% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2445mg per serving (106% 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 dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, you can add extra vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the texture and flavor, making it a satisfying vegetarian chili.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch with a bit of water) to the simmering chili and stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots, corn, or peas. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to ensure they remain tender but not overcooked.
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).