My Grandmother'S Chilli
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground meats, tangy tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and ground pork with the chopped onions in a large skillet or pot.
- Once the meat is browned, add the remaining ingredients: catsup, canned tomatoes, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, prepared mustard, chili powder, and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Add the canned red kidney beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking, if desired.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a diced jalapeño for heat. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a sweeter chili, increase the sugar or add some brown sugar. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can serve as a decent alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Liz'S Favorite Pizza Snacks or a fresh salad. Enjoy with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals. For longer storage, freeze in containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Grandmother'S Chilli contains roughly 1107 calories, with 60g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (120% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 860mg per serving (37% 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?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and pork. Substitute with lentils, beans, or textured vegetable protein for a hearty texture. Ensure to adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor.
How can I thicken the chili?
To thicken the chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to evaporate some liquid. Alternatively, adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) can help achieve a thicker consistency.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned diced tomatoes work well in this recipe, but you can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture. If using fresh tomatoes, about 2 cups of chopped ripe tomatoes will suffice. Adjust the liquid accordingly to ensure the chili doesn't become too watery.
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).