Mark'S Chili
A hearty and savory chili featuring rich tomato flavors, kidney beans, and ground beef, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings with bold, warming spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, tomato soup, kidney beans (do not drain), sugar, and chili powder into a large pot.
- Put the burner on low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Brown the ground beef, draining off as much grease as you can.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the sauce and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or additional beans. Experiment with different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety. To enhance the flavor, let it simmer longer, as the spices meld beautifully over time. Serve with cornbread for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mark's Chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for extra creaminess. It pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. For a complete meal, consider a side salad or some steamed vegetables. This chili is perfect for game day or casual gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions, allowing it to cool completely before sealing. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mark'S Chili contains roughly 466 calories, with 27g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Mixing different beans can also enhance the nutritional profile of the dish, making it even more satisfying.
How can I thicken my chili if it is too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans against the pot to create a thicker consistency or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it up quickly.
Is it necessary to brown the ground beef before adding it to the sauce?
Yes, browning the ground beef before mixing it with the sauce is essential. This step enhances the flavor by allowing the meat to caramelize, adding depth to the chili. Additionally, draining the grease helps keep the chili from becoming too fatty.
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).