Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson'S Recipe For Pedernales River Chili
A hearty, flavorful Texas-style chili with ground beef, tomatoes, and bold spices, perfect for comfort food gatherings or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sear ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic in a large, heavy skillet until light brown.
- Add ground oregano, cumin seed, chili powder, canned Ro-Tel tomatoes, and hot water to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Skim off any excess fat as the chili cooks.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding a splash of beer or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans. Fresh jalapeños can add heat if desired, while using canned tomatoes is convenient. Ensure to taste and adjust the salt throughout the cooking process for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot in bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro or shredded cheese. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or pairing with Sissy'S Chili for a delightful chili night experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Pedernales River Chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson'S Recipe For Pedernales River Chili contains roughly 2679 calories, with 127g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (255% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (202% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2466mg per serving (107% 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 different types of meat for this chili?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each meat will impart a different flavor, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
What can I do to make the chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or include diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers to the mix. You could also incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for an extra kick, adjusting to your heat tolerance.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a deliciously rich flavor without the need for constant supervision.
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).