Derek'S Pop-Pop'S Chili
A hearty, smoky chili bursting with tomato richness and a hint of Tabasco heat—perfect for game nights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the meat, onions, and green pepper in a skillet until the meat is medium‑well done.
- Add salt, black pepper, and Tabasco sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour in the peeled tomatoes and tomato sauce, cover, and simmer on low for 60 minutes.
- Add the kidney beans and continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cumin or smoked paprika to the chili. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the Tabasco sauce or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if desired. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the freshness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Topping it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions adds extra flavor and texture. This dish pairs beautifully with Quick Apple Salad for a refreshing contrast, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Derek'S Pop-Pop'S Chili contains roughly 1075 calories, with 68g protein, 210g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (305% of the Daily Value), iron (182% of the Daily Value), and protein (135% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 Derek's Pop-Pop's Chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it when you're ready to serve. It’s a great option for meal prep or for hosting gatherings.
Is this chili suitable for a vegan diet?
While this recipe contains meat, you can easily adapt it into vegan recipes by omitting the meat and using lentils or additional beans for protein. The existing flavors from the tomatoes and spices will still provide a delicious and hearty dish.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a little water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and continue to simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. This will help maintain the rich taste while ensuring it’s not overly dense.
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).