Houston Style Chili
Houston Style Chili features hearty ground beef, rich spices, and vegetables, resulting in a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for gatherings and chili lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, cumin, thyme, black pepper, water, chili powder, chopped celery, and chopped green peppers to the pot.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, red kidney beans, fat, and flour.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork. You can substitute the red kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans if desired. If you like it spicier, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. Make sure to let the chili simmer long enough to develop deep flavors, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a side of Fried Cabbage And Hamburger. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a simple salad or tortilla chips to scoop up the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Houston Style Chili contains roughly 1598 calories, with 43g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (177% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% 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 Houston Style Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply stir in a little water or beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember to let it simmer for a bit longer to ensure the flavors remain well-blended.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Houston Style Chili, substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils and chopped mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of water and add extra veggies like zucchini or carrots for added texture and 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).