Mexican Hot Chili
A hearty Mexican hot chili packed with bold spices and savory beans, perfect for warming up gatherings or family dinners with spicy, flavorful comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and finely dice onions and celery.
- Brown the ground beef in a heavy pot and drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onions and celery to the pot and cook until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, cumin powder, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Cook together for a few minutes.
- Pour in the tomato juice and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the chili uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add chili beans or red kidney beans during the last 15 minutes of cooking if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider increasing the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños. If you're short on chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can work as a substitute. Feel free to replace the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. This chili is versatile, so adjust spices to your preference for a unique twist, possibly inspired by other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with Soft Tacos for a fun dining experience. For a complete meal, consider serving a side of Frijoles A La Charra or a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Hot Chili contains roughly 1026 calories, with 46g protein, 169g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (200% of the Daily Value), iron (138% of the Daily Value), and protein (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1999mg per serving (87% 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?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a combination of lentils, black beans, or even crumbled tofu for protein. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed, and you can still enjoy a flavorful chili without meat.
How can I thicken the chili if it’s too watery?
If your chili turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to evaporate some of the liquid. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water can help thicken the chili quickly without altering the flavor.
What can I serve on the side?
Consider serving tortilla chips for scooping or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chili. Also, a side of Mexican Cabbage Casserole complements the meal well, adding a crunchy texture to your dining experience.
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).