Hobo Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and butter until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until brown.
- Add tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, El Paso hot sauce, and chili powder.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add beans and simmer for another 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste; just adjust the quantity accordingly. To enhance the heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper, which can elevate the flavor profile of this hobo chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hobo chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side of tortilla chips for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the rich flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely with a lid, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hobo Chili contains roughly 778 calories, with 38g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2776mg per serving (121% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, black beans, or textured vegetable protein. Additionally, make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the flavor while keeping it meat-free.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a few additional minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the beans and stir them back into the chili, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to help thicken it up.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Hobo chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
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).