June'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender beef, rich spices, and a smoky tomato base, perfect for comforting gatherings and spice lovers alike.
Ingredients
- 3.5 lb. top round beef, cut into 1/2 inch cubes ⓘ
- 5 Tbsp. oil ⓘ
- 2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 4 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 4 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 tsp. crushed red pepper ⓘ
- 2 cans whole tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 cans beef broth
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 tsp. sugar ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. yellow cornmeal ⓘ
Instructions
- Pat the meat dry with paper towels.
- Heat 5 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed meat all at once and sear, turning until all sides are browned.
- Remove the meat from the pot and place in a bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until limp, not browned.
- Add chili powder, oregano, ground cumin, and crushed red pepper; cook for 1 minute to toast spices.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the canned whole tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon as you stir.
- Add the browned meat back into the pot, along with salt, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of yellow cornmeal.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, until the meat is tender and flavors meld.
- Cool the chili and refrigerate overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the chili while it simmers. You can substitute the top round beef with chuck roast or ground beef for a different texture. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the crushed red pepper or omit it entirely. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve June's Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for added freshness. Cornbread or tortilla chips pair wonderfully alongside this dish. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. This chili also makes a great filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of June'S Chili contains roughly 2779 calories, with 19g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 286g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (75% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2035mg per serving (88% 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 a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker! After browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The result will be a delicious, slow-cooked version of this Tasty Beef Dish(Easy).
How can I make this chili spicier?
To boost the heat in June's Chili, you can add more crushed red pepper or include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the spice level. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired heat.
What can I serve with June's Chili?
June's Chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it over rice or baked potatoes for a more filling meal. Consider offering toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado to customize each serving.
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).