Leona'S Chili
Leona's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef simmered with a blend of chili powder, spices, and tomatoes, then finished with kidney beans. Perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners, its rich, spicy profile appeals to chili lovers and those seeking comfort food with a kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot.
- Season the beef with chili powder, onion flakes, paprika, salt, oregano, minced garlic, and cumin.
- Add the large can of tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3 hours or until thick.
- Add the kidney beans with their liquid.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, let the chili simmer longer than 3 hours if you have time. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Using fresh tomatoes instead of canned can provide a fresher taste, but be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Leona's Chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. This chili also complements well with a side of 'My' Chili or can be served in a bread bowl for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leona'S Chili contains roughly 374 calories, with 17g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1402mg per serving (61% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or by using more beans and vegetables. Lentils also work well as a hearty replacement, and you can add extra bell peppers and zucchini for added nutrition.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a while to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the chili and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
What can I serve with Leona's Chili?
Leona's Chili is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. It pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of 'Speedy Beef Casserole For One' or a simple green salad.
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).