Fiesta Siesta Chili
Fiesta Siesta Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with seasoned ground meats, fresh vegetables, and spicy jalapenos—perfect for gatherings and chili lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. lean ground beef or flank steak, diced ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. pork sausage ⓘ
- 1 lb. Chorizo, cut into 1/2-inch pieces ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 3 medium onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 red bell pepper, diced ⓘ
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced ⓘ
- 1 green bell pepper, diced ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Tabasco sauce ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. dried oregano ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. ground coriander ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the meats in a skillet; reserve, discarding excess fat.
- Heat oil in a heavy pot over low heat; cook onions, garlic, and bell peppers for 15 minutes or until tender.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, dried oregano, ground coriander, chili powder, cumin, pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook 2 to 3 minutes to forge the flavors together.
- Add diced jalapenos, drained and rinsed stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and reserved meats.
- Heat through and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Fiesta Siesta Chili, consider adding a splash of beer while simmering. This can deepen the taste and complement the spices. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the dish before serving. For a spicy kick, add more jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Fiesta Siesta Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. It pairs beautifully with Hot Enchilada Squares or cornbread for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of tortilla chips or a fresh salad. This chili also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in short intervals, ensuring it heats evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fiesta Siesta Chili contains roughly 629 calories, with 28g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (118% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1391mg per serving (60% 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! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently before serving. This is a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests, as it can save time on the day you plan to serve it.
What can I use instead of Chorizo?
If you prefer a milder flavor or want to avoid pork, you can substitute Chorizo with ground turkey or chicken. You could also use a vegetarian sausage for a plant-based version. Just ensure to season it well to replicate the spices typically found in Chorizo for a similar taste.
How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. The current recipe includes jalapeños and Tabasco sauce, but you can reduce or omit these ingredients for a milder chili. Conversely, add extra jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for more heat. Taste and adjust as you go to find your perfect balance.
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).