Mary Ann'S Chili
Mary Ann's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef or venison simmered with tomatoes, beans, and spices. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, its bold flavors and comforting warmth make it a crowd-pleaser suitable for those who enjoy a mildly spicy, savory chili.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or venison and chopped onion in a large skillet or pan; drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked meat and onion with the remaining ingredients in a large kettle or Dutch oven.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and venison. If you like it spicier, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. Substitute black beans for kidney beans for a different texture. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste. Always taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary Ann's Chili with warm cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Roasted Ribs for a filling feast. Top each bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. Consider serving with a side salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it heats evenly. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Ann'S Chili contains roughly 552 calories, with 32g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and protein (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg per serving (29% 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! Mary Ann's Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you're ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or plant-based meat. Use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based stock, and make sure your beans are vegetarian-friendly. Adjust spices to taste for a delicious meat-free chili.
What can I do if my chili is too thick?
If your chili ends up too thick, simply add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. This will help ensure a perfect texture without losing flavor.
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).