Peggy'S Homemade Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili packed with ground beef, beans, and vegetables, perfect for feeding a crowd and satisfying cravings for a spicy, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef, celery, onion, and bell pepper for 10 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, garlic, pepper, and chili powder.
- Cook on low heat for at least 2 hours to develop flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef first before adding the vegetables. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Utilizing dried beans instead of canned will also enhance the texture, just remember to soak them overnight. Explore more beef recipes to find variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Peggy's Homemade Chili with freshly baked cornbread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. This chili pairs beautifully with Stuffed Tenderloin for an impressive dinner spread. Enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun, casual serving option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove over low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Microwave reheating is also effective, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peggy'S Homemade Chili contains roughly 449 calories, with 30g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (126% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), and iron (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1151mg per serving (50% 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 make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like tempeh. Increase the quantity of beans and add more vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How can I adjust the chili's thickness?
If your chili is too thick, add a bit of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce and thicken. You can also mash some of the beans to help thicken the mixture.
What can I serve with chili besides cornbread?
Besides cornbread, consider serving the chili with crispy tortilla strips, baked potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. A side of guacamole or avocado slices also adds a creamy contrast that complements the chili's spiciness 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).