Dorothy'S Chili
Dorothy's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat.
- Drain off the fat.
- Using a fork, crumble the cooked beef into pea-sized pieces.
- Combine the beef with tomato sauce, kidney beans, diced onion, diced green chilies, diced celery, chopped tomatoes, cumin powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and water in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Top with shredded cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adding bell peppers or corn can enhance the texture and flavor. Adjust the spices according to your heat preference; a pinch of cayenne can elevate the heat. This chili is ideal for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dorothy's Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Topping with shredded cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips for crunch. This dish also complements recipes like Grandma'S New England Sauerbraten for a diverse dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooled chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S Chili contains roughly 1472 calories, with 84g protein, 213g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (264% of the Daily Value), protein (167% of the Daily Value), and iron (165% 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 this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also include diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat. Taste as you go to find the perfect heat level for your palate.
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).