Cindy'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and smoky spices, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers craving a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put in beef, onion, green pepper, and garlic and brown. Drain grease.
- Add remaining ingredients, except water.
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add water as needed to adjust the consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also adjust the spice level by increasing the Tabasco sauce or using a spicier chili powder. For a thicker chili, reduce the amount of tomatoes or beans. This recipe also works well as a filling for the Sante Fe Burrito Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cindy's Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping. For a complete meal, consider a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it as a topping for baked potatoes or in a taco shell for a fun twist. For more ideas, check out other beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it's too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cindy'S Chili contains roughly 588 calories, with 40g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (152% of the Daily Value), iron (91% of the Daily Value), and protein (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1694mg per serving (74% 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! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just let it cool completely before storing in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if necessary.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
You can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas, depending on your preference. Each type of bean will bring its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment. Just ensure that whatever beans you choose are cooked or canned for convenience.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To amp up the heat, try adding extra chili powder or a chopped jalapeño during cooking. You could also include a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of Tabasco sauce. If you're brave, add some diced serrano peppers for an extra kick!
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).