Plantation Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, and bold spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and satisfying any chili lover's craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef tenderloin with 1 cup chopped Vidalia onion and 1 teaspoon chili powder in a large skillet.
- Drain the tomatoes well, then break them apart with your hand and add to the meat mixture.
- Add garlic and the remaining chili powder and onion to the mixture and cook for about 15 minutes.
- Add chopped green pepper and red pepper and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with a bit of Worcestershire sauce. If you want to reduce fat, use lean ground turkey instead of beef tenderloin. You can substitute canned diced tomatoes for fresh ones if they're out of season. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. For heat, mix in some jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Plantation Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or shredded cheese. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a simple green salad or browse more American recipes for complementary sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Chili contains roughly 12 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, as these alternatives may require less time to heat through. Adding extra vegetables can also enhance the flavor and texture.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To control the heat, start with a smaller amount of chili powder and taste as you go. You can always add more if needed. For a milder flavor, use sweet paprika instead of chili powder or omit spicy peppers. For more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
What can I serve with Plantation Chili?
Plantation Chili goes well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it over rice or pasta for a filling meal. For a twist, try it with Baked Burgers for a fun chili burger combo.
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).