Mary'S Chile
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, peppers, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings with bold, spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak kidney beans overnight.
- Saute green peppers and onion until soft.
- Brown hamburger meat and place it in a crock-pot.
- Start cooking on high for 1 hour, then switch to low and cook all night.
- Add chili powder and crushed tomatoes, then cook on high until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of vinegar to balance the spices. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. If you like it spicier, add more chili peppers or a dash of cayenne. Don't skip soaking the kidney beans overnight; it helps with cooking time and digestibility.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary’s Chile with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top. A side of cornbread or a fresh salad complements the dish beautifully. It also pairs well with Baked Beans Doctored for a heartier meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it in taco shells or over rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer to a pot and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Chile contains roughly 206 calories, with 9g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2107mg per serving (92% 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 use canned kidney beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned kidney beans to save time. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the crock-pot. Reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked, adding them in the last hour of cooking to heat through.
How spicy is this chile recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted. With 2 tsp. of chili peppers, it's mildly spicy, but if you prefer more heat, feel free to add additional chili powder or fresh jalapeños. Tasting as you go is key to achieving your desired spiciness.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the hamburger with a mix of lentils or more kidney beans for protein. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the texture.
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).