Easy Low-Fat Chili
A hearty, low-fat chili packed with beans and vegetables, featuring bold flavors from chili powder and tomatoes—perfect for healthy, comforting meals for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook the chopped onion and green pepper in 1/2 cup water until tender.
- Add the rinsed and drained Great Northern beans, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Stir in chili powder, salt, pepper, and the remaining water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier chili, consider adding lean ground turkey or extra beans. You can also swap Great Northern beans for black beans or kidney beans. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference; start with 2 teaspoons and increase as desired. Fresh herbs like cilantro can add brightness, or you can serve with a dollop of Short Cut Guacamole for added creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. It pairs beautifully with Corn Tortillas Tostada or a side of Mexican Salad Dressing drizzled over a fresh salad. For an added kick, consider serving with tortilla chips for scooping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Low-Fat Chili contains roughly 171 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (134% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 612mg per serving (27% 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! Simply sauté the onion and green pepper first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
Is this chili suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally low-fat and vegan-friendly as it uses beans and vegetables for protein. Just ensure that any toppings, like cheese or sour cream, are replaced with plant-based alternatives for a fully vegan dish.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out thicker than desired, simply add a bit of water or vegetable broth until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir well and heat through to combine the flavors.
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).