Mamaw'S Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground meat, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners that satisfy all spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground meat and chopped onion with chili powder in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Drain off excess fat from the ground meat.
- Combine the cooked meat and onions with diced tomatoes, chili beans, and kidney beans in a large pot.
- Add chili mix and stir well.
- Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce can enhance umami. If you prefer a spicier chili, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the canned beans with dried beans, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand. This recipe is adaptable to suit various dietary preferences, including vegan recipes by using plant-based ground meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mamaw's Chili with warm cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions add great texture and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Homemade Pot Pies for a comforting dinner spread. For an extra kick, serve with tortilla chips on the side for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Chili also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe bags and it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamaw'S Chili contains roughly 1023 calories, with 52g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (142% of the Daily Value), protein (103% of the Daily Value), and iron (102% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2804mg per serving (122% 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 Mamaw's Chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the meat and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I do if the chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a little beef broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Avoid adding too much liquid at once to maintain the flavor balance.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 medium-sized tomatoes, diced, will substitute for the canned diced tomatoes. Blanch and peel them for a smoother texture if desired. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may add a bit more moisture, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
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).