Pedernales River Chili
A hearty Texas-style chili with rich flavors from coarsely ground beef, tomatoes, and bold spices, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Ask the butcher to coarsely grind the round steak or well-trimmed chuck using a 3/4-inch plate.
- Coarsely ground chili meat is prepared and set aside.
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the chili meat to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in ground oregano, cumin seed, and chili powder, cooking briefly to toast the spices.
- Add canned whole tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon.
- Pour in hot water and bring to a simmer.
- Add liquid hot sauce to taste and salt as needed.
- Simmer uncovered for about 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different meats like pork or turkey in addition to the chili meat. If you don't have ground cumin, you can substitute with cumin powder. To save time, use pre-chopped onions and garlic. Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. For a thicker chili, let it simmer longer; for a soupier consistency, add more water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or diced onions. This chili pairs beautifully with Doris' Hot Dog Relish for a tangy contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Mary Sims Paprika Potatoes for a comforting side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered bowl until heated through. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pedernales River Chili contains roughly 193 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2083mg 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and refrigerate. Simply reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving for the best taste.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or honey. Another option is to stir in some sour cream or yogurt when serving, which will help mellow the spiciness. Adding more canned tomatoes can also dilute the heat.
Is there a vegetarian version of this chili?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chili meat with a mix of beans like black beans, kidney beans, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and incorporate some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for texture.
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).