Greaseless Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and bold spices, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings that love a little heat and smokiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add salt to the ground chuck and fry the meat until browned.
- Pour off excess grease from the meat.
- Lightly coat the meat with flour to absorb all remaining grease.
- Add chili powder and mix well.
- Add stewed tomatoes, diced onion, and kidney beans to the pot.
- Pour in water and add salsa or picante to the chili.
- Simmer the chili for several hours until flavors meld and it is thoroughly cooked.
- Stir periodically during cooking.
- Ensure there is no grease on the chili before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, adjust the chili powder and salsa to taste. If you don't have ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Adding a teaspoon of cumin or smoked paprika can enhance the depth of flavor. Serve with a side of Corn, Rice And Bean Salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with Fresh Guacamole and tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a salad or cornbread. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be made ahead of time to allow flavors to develop.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greaseless Chili contains roughly 267 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2455mg per serving (107% 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?
Yes, this chili can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Is there a way to make this chili less spicy?
Absolutely! To reduce the heat, start with 3 teaspoons of chili powder and salsa, then taste before adding more. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the heat if needed.
What can I serve with greaseless chili?
Greaseless chili pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. For a more festive touch, try serving it with A True Margarita to complement 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).