J.B.'S Chili "Hot Stuff"

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A spicy, hearty chili featuring jalapeno relish, tender ground meat, and a blend of bold spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and those who love a fiery kick.

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Ingredients

  • 4 green peppers, chopped
  • 4 onions, chopped
  • 2 (7 1/2 oz.) cans jalapeno relish
  • 1 qt. pureed tomatoes
  • 2 (16 oz.) cans kidney beans
  • 1 tsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. red pepper
  • 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 3 lb. ground beef or turkey

Instructions

  1. Brown and crumble the ground meat in a skillet.
  2. Saute chopped green peppers and onions separately in 1 teaspoon oil until tender.
  3. Mix all ingredients except jalapeno relish in a pot or crock-pot and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Add jalapeno relish, 1/4 jar at a time, to taste, and stir well.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider using fresh jalapeños instead of relish or add more cayenne. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, or even use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. If you prefer a sweeter chili, add a tablespoon of brown sugar. Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially the cumin and chili powder, to enhance flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve J.B.'S Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy-As-Pie Eclair Cake for dessert, making it a delightful dinner option. Feel free to add tortilla chips for crunch or a fresh salad on the side.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power until heated through or warm in a pot over low heat. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of J.B.'S Chili "Hot Stuff" contains roughly 883 calories, with 48g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (431% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (277% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1081mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

883 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 47.9g 96% DV
Total Fat 38.1g 49% DV
Carbs 132g 48% DV
Fiber 51.5g 100% DV
Sugar 21g 42% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1081mg 47% DV
Potassium 4535.8mg 97% DV
Cholesterol 34.1mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2496.5mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 387.9mg 100% DV
Calcium 795.8mg 61% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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?

Absolutely! J.B.'S Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and simply reheat before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can easily substitute ground turkey or even ground chicken for a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans and lentils to maintain texture and protein. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level can vary based on the amount of jalapeno relish and cayenne pepper you use. Start with the recommended amounts, and taste as you go. If you prefer it milder, reduce the cayenne, or skip the jalapeno relish. You can always add more spice later!

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).

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