Mrs. J'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender ground beef, kidney beans, and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a skillet, stirring until crumbly.
- Drain well and set aside.
- Saute onion until soft.
- Combine all ingredients in the skillet.
- Simmer, covered, for 2 hours.
- Remove garlic before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger with a pinch of salt and pepper. You can substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you like it spicier, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Using canned beans is convenient, but dried beans soaked overnight can enhance the texture. Don't skip the garlic; it adds depth to the chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. J'S Chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro can elevate the dish. It pairs wonderfully with Minted Lima Bean Salad for a refreshing side. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. J'S Chili contains roughly 1250 calories, with 48g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (137% of the Daily Value), and protein (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% 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! Substitute the hamburger with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. Increase the beans and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or cumin. Adding diced bell peppers or a teaspoon of sugar can help balance out heat. For more heat, include diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to taste.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the hamburger and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).