Pete'S 5-Alarm Chili
Pete's 5-Alarm Chili is a spicy, hearty dish packed with ground meat, jalapenos, and beans, perfect for chili lovers seeking bold flavors and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean ground meat in a skillet and drain off the fat.
- In a stew pot, sauté chopped peppers, onion, garlic, and jalapenos for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked meat, stewed tomatoes, kidney beans, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Add chili powder to taste and simmer on low heat, covered, for 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally during simmering. Serve with grated Cheddar cheese and a hard roll if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding habanero peppers or using a spicier chili powder. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference, and feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin or smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pete's 5-Alarm Chili with a generous topping of grated Cheddar cheese and a hard roll to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, pair it with a side salad or cornbread. This hearty dish also pairs beautifully with Carol's Favorite Cake for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pete'S 5-Alarm Chili contains roughly 751 calories, with 46g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (169% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 753mg per serving (33% 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?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. Just remember to adjust the seasoning if needed after reheating.
Is it possible to freeze the chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with the chili?
In addition to grated cheese and hard rolls, consider serving it with tortilla chips or a dollop of sour cream. A refreshing coleslaw or a side of rice can also complement the spiciness of the chili 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).