Mamaw Henry'S Chili Con Carne
A hearty and flavorful chili con carne featuring ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili spices, perfect for comforting family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a large pot or skillet.
- Add chopped onions, chopped green pepper, garlic, tomatoes, kidney beans with liquid, salt, and chili powder.
- Cook slowly for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you're out of kidney beans, pinto or black beans work as excellent substitutes. To enhance the chili's taste, let it sit overnight in the fridge; the flavors meld beautifully. Serve with cornbread for a comforting meal, similar to those found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mamaw Henry's Chili Con Carne hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Pair it with warm cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast. This dish can be a great centerpiece for a casual gathering or game day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamaw Henry'S Chili Con Carne contains roughly 1392 calories, with 55g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (145% of the Daily Value), iron (113% of the Daily Value), and protein (110% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2697mg per serving (117% 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 hamburger with plant-based meat or additional beans. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as plant-based options may require less time to cook.
How can I make my chili less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness of the chili, you can decrease the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. Another option is to add a dollop of sour cream or a bit of sugar to balance the heat. Serve with toppings like avocado to mellow the flavors.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. Additionally, incorporating diced tomatoes with green chilies or a splash of beer during cooking can give your chili a unique twist. Consider pairing it with Stuffed Zucchini Halves for an extra veggie boost.
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).