Cold Day Chili
Warm up with a hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for cozy days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink; drain excess fat.
- Add drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, water, brown sugar, chili powder, vinegar, prepared mustard, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a few chopped jalapeños for heat. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or additional beans. Adjust the chili powder to match your spice preference, and feel free to add bell peppers for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Cold Day Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or alongside recipes like Winter Warming Vegetable Soup for a comforting feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Day Chili contains roughly 680 calories, with 31g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (160% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (128% of the Daily Value), and iron (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% 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 tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onion first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What toppings work best for this chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, and even avocado slices. You might also try serving it with tortilla chips for added crunch or as a base for a hearty chili nacho platter.
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).