Ohio Grange Cookbook Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and rich spices, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers craving bold, warming tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onions, chopped garlic, oregano, cumin, and chili powder together until the beef is no longer pink.
- Add the canned tomatoes, hot water, and salt; bring to a boil and simmer on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the drained kidney beans and continue to simmer for another hour.
- Serve hot with corn bread or saltines.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. You can also add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef for textured vegetable protein or canned lentils. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice tolerance, and feel free to explore different herbs or spices inspired by American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or saltines for a classic touch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or with a side of Creamed Ground Beef On Baked Potatoes for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. The chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ohio Grange Cookbook Chili contains roughly 1387 calories, with 82g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (164% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (150% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2087mg per serving (91% 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 in advance?
Yes, this chili is perfect for making in advance! It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Each will provide a different flavor profile, but they can work well with the spices in this chili.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To make the chili milder, reduce the chili powder and omit any spicy additions like jalapeños. For more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicier chili powder. 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).