Kay'S Shadywood Showdown Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground sirloin, smoky mole sauce, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for comforting gatherings or weeknight dinners with customizable toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add half of the diced onions and bell peppers; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a separate skillet, brown the ground sirloin, leaving it in chunks; drain excess fat.
- Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet with the meat.
- Stir in the mole sauce and tomato sauce, then add water to desired consistency.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of chili powder and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the drained kidney beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and jalapeños or other toppings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of cumin or smoked paprika to the chili mix. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground sirloin for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the meat for a mix of beans and lentils. Use low-sodium tomato sauce to control the saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, topped with grated Cheddar cheese and your choice of toppings like chopped green onions and jalapeños. It pairs beautifully with King Ranch Chicken (Enchilada Pie) or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, consider a side of salad or tortilla chips with Pico De Diane.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kay'S Shadywood Showdown Chili contains roughly 2596 calories, with 109g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 224g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (219% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2418mg per serving (105% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I add for extra heat?
If you like your chili spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or include some cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just be sure to drain and rinse them if using canned beans.
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).