Jane'S Chili(Good!)
Jane's Chili offers hearty, flavorful goodness with tender beans, savory beef, and rich tomatoes, perfect for gatherings and comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put beans in 9 cups of water with 1 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil.
- Reduce to simmer and cook for 1 3/4 hours, then save 1 1/2 cups of liquid.
- Cook ground beef with chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped bell pepper, and minced garlic until vegetables are tender; drain excess fat.
- Combine cooked beans, drained meat and vegetables, chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, salt, and sugar.
- Simmer the mixture for 3 hours, using the reserved bean liquid if desired.
- Optional: use a crock-pot for slow cooking.
- Serve hot, yielding 15 to 20 servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to your chili. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. You can also use canned beans for convenience, just be sure to rinse them well. For extra heat, try adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This chili pairs beautifully with American recipes like cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro on top. It goes well with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or serving it alongside Grandma's Barbecue for a delightful family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jane'S Chili(Good!) contains roughly 243 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 847mg per serving (37% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat thoroughly before serving. This is a great make-ahead option for gatherings.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the chili to thicken it quickly. Another option is to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
Is this chili spicy?
This chili has a mild spice level thanks to the chili powder. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your liking for the perfect kick!
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).