Empress Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with rich spices and tender beef, perfect for cozy gatherings and chili lovers seeking a spicy, savory comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and drain fat.
- Add water, tomato paste, garlic, bay leaves, cumin, cinnamon, red pepper, chili powder, pepper, salt, and allspice to a large saucepan.
- Add the cooked hamburger to the saucepan.
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Simmer the chili for 2 1/2 hours.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and onions on cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork, or swap in turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the spice levels by adding more red pepper or chili powder based on your preference. If you don’t have bay leaves, dried thyme can be a suitable substitute. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Empress Chili over a bed of spaghetti for a hearty meal, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and diced onions for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, such as Broccoli Salad With Bacon, to balance the richness of the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Empress Chili contains roughly 1235 calories, with 55g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2117mg per serving (92% 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. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you're ready to serve.
Is it possible to freeze the chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I add to make it vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a mix of beans, such as black beans and kidney beans. Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.
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).