Monte'S Calente Chili
A hearty, spicy chili featuring ground beef and a blend of bold spices, perfect for satisfying gatherings and chili lovers seeking robust flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet until it turns gray in color.
- Drain the grease from the cooked beef.
- Add tomato sauce, Tabasco, chili powder, chopped onions, salt, paprika, Japanese red peppers, oregano, cumin seed, garlic, cayenne pepper (if using), and chili pods to the skillet.
- Simmer until the flavors meld together, about 20 minutes.
- Remove the Japanese red peppers before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with minced garlic before adding other ingredients. If Japanese red peppers are unavailable, substitute with fresh jalapeños for heat or bell peppers for sweetness. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference. If you want to lighten the dish, try using ground turkey instead of beef, which can work well in many beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Monte'S Calente Chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for added richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. You can also enjoy it over rice or as a filling for soft tacos. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh garden salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to cover the bowl to prevent splatters and stir halfway through for even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monte'S Calente Chili contains roughly 679 calories, with 28g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (351% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (267% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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! Monte'S Calente Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat when ready to serve for a hearty, convenient meal.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a combination of black beans and kidney beans. These substitutions maintain the hearty texture while offering different flavor profiles.
How spicy is this chili?
The heat level can be adjusted based on your preference. The Japanese red peppers and cayenne pepper contribute spice, but you can reduce or omit the cayenne for a milder version. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
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).