Poppa'S Chili
Poppa's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground meat, beans, and vegetables in a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour tomato soup and 1 can of water into a large pot.
- Brown the ground meat; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the browned meat to the soup and let it simmer.
- Cut the onion, celery, and green pepper into small pieces and add them to the soup and meat.
- Add ketchup and spicy brown mustard into the mixture.
- Stir well and simmer for about 2 hours.
- Drain the kidney beans well and add them to the mixture.
- Simmer for an additional 30 minutes and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water when adding the tomato soup. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the taste, too. This dish is flexible, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what's available.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Poppa's Chili with a side of crispy French bread for dipping. A fresh salad can complement the meal nicely. For a fun twist, consider pairing it with the 'Emergency Recipe For Cranberry Sauce' for a sweet contrast. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions can enhance each bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use a microwave; just heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poppa'S Chili contains roughly 947 calories, with 15g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1626mg per serving (71% 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?
Yes, Poppa's Chili can be made ahead and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it up to a day in advance, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving for the best taste.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with a mix of mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Be sure to check that your tomato soup and beans are vegetarian-friendly and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
How spicy is this chili?
The spice level of Poppa's Chili can be adjusted to your taste. The recipe calls for spicy brown mustard, which adds some heat, but you can control this by omitting it or adding more if you prefer. Additionally, consider adding chili powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
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).