Jean'S Blue Ribbon Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and savory spices, perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot of water, boil the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is done.
- Crumble the cooked meat and drain excess water.
- Add kidney beans, chopped bell pepper, special sauce, chili seasoning, and 2 cups of water to the pot.
- Simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add more water if the chili becomes too thick during simmering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef before boiling. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use canned black beans if red kidney beans aren't available. Adjust the chili seasoning to your taste; if you prefer it spicier, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. To enhance the dish, try adding a touch of cocoa powder or cinnamon, similar to techniques used in Saucy Beef And Bean Dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Blue Ribbon Chili with warm cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Topping it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions adds extra flavor and texture. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or tortilla chips for a complete dinner experience. For a cozy evening, enjoy it alongside Cheryl'S Hamburger Soup for variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Blue Ribbon Chili contains roughly 544 calories, with 30g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (244% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 905mg per serving (39% 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 and freeze it?
Yes, you can prepare Jean's Blue Ribbon Chili in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili becomes too thick during cooking, simply add water or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate the liquid. This also helps to refresh the flavors, allowing them to meld together even more beautifully as in Quick Stew 'N Dumplings.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this chili, replace the ground beef with a mix of lentils and chopped vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth and ensure your chili seasoning mix is meat-free. This way, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying chili without the meat.
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).