Lady Bird Johnson'S Pedernales River Chili
A hearty Texas-style chili loaded with tender meat, tomatoes, and bold spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and flavor enthusiasts seeking a robust, smoky dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place meat, onion, and garlic in a large heavy frypan or Dutch oven.
- Cook until the meat is light in color.
- Add oregano, cumin seed, chili powder, canned whole tomatoes, hot pepper sauce, salt, and hot water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Skim off fat during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of chili meats such as beef and pork. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and hot sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro can add a bright touch at the end. If you're out of cumin seeds, ground cumin can be used as a substitute, just adjust the quantity to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over rice for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing Cranberry-Orange Salad(Adapted From General Foods Kitchens Cookbook) to balance the spice. Toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream can enhance each bowl, making for a customizable experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lady Bird Johnson'S Pedernales River Chili contains roughly 1952 calories, with 88g protein, 240g carbohydrates, and 111g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (214% of the Daily Value), and protein (175% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2831mg per serving (123% 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?
Absolutely! In fact, making chili a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just let it cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and feel free to adjust seasoning as needed.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?
Yes, to create a vegan recipe, substitute the chili meat with a combination of beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the cooking times, as these ingredients usually require less time to cook compared to meat.
What types of chili meat are best?
While this recipe calls for chili meat, a mix of ground beef and pork is traditional. You can also use stew meat or cubed brisket for a chunkier texture, but ensure they are cooked until tender for the best results.
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).