Diet Chili
A hearty and flavorful diet chili featuring beef, vegetables, and beans, perfect for those seeking a low-calorie, satisfying meal with classic chili flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. hamburger, broiled ⓘ
- 1 cup celery, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 package G. Washington seasoning (beef flavor) ⓘ
- 1 (28 oz.) can bean sprouts, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic ⓘ
- 1/2 cup raw tomatoes, diced ⓘ
- 1 cup tomato juice ⓘ
- 1 can kidney beans (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix together all ingredients in a large pot.
- Simmer until the flavors meld and the vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. If you're looking to add more fiber, consider using black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans. For added flavor, sauté the vegetables before adding them to the pot. Adjust the spiciness by adding more chili powder or incorporating diced jalapeños if desired. This dish can also be enhanced with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the diet chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with Dixie Corn Bread for a hearty meal. Consider offering toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or a side of tortilla chips for added texture. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a meal prep option for the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra tomato juice to maintain moisture. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This chili also freezes well; place it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diet Chili contains roughly 436 calories, with 23g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2561mg per serving (111% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and using vegetable broth instead of water. Replace the meat with additional beans or lentils for protein. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots to enhance the dish.
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 longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a thicker consistency.
What can I serve with diet chili?
Diet chili pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad for freshness or with tortilla chips for crunch. For a heartier option, try it alongside Rhonda'S Cabbage Casserole or as a filling for baked potatoes.
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).