German Chili
German Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish combining tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and kidney beans in a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot; drain excess grease.
- Boil potatoes and chopped onion until tender; drain the liquid.
- Combine the cooked beef, potatoes, onion, kidney beans, ketchup, sugar, and tomato juice in the pot.
- Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and dish thickens.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef; just adjust the cooking time as needed. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. To enhance the dish’s flavor, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This recipe is also perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings like a church troop event.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it with Ready Rye Appetizers for a delightful appetizer before the main course. This dish is great for casual gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, but add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions in containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Chili contains roughly 1244 calories, with 23g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), potassium (67% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1200mg per serving (52% 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 use other types of beans in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute other beans such as black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using canned beans to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or increase the amount of beans and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).