Real Texas Chili
Real Texas Chili is a hearty and robust dish that embodies the spirit of Texan cuisine. With rich flavors from chili powder, comino seed, and paprika, it's perfect for gatherings and will warm you up on a chilly day. Ideal for spice lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion and garlic in bacon drippings; add meat and cook until gray.
- Add tomato sauce, water, and spices.
- Bring to boil and then allow to simmer for at least an hour.
- When done, add little flour until desired thickness is reached.
- When ready to serve, add cooked pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or hominy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider searing the chili meat before adding it to the pot. You can substitute the chili meat with ground turkey or even a blend of beans for a vegetarian option. Using smoked paprika can enhance the smokiness of the dish. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Real Texas Chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Aunty Ann'S Vegetable Chowder for a complete spread. For a unique twist, consider adding cooked pinto beans, black-eyed peas, or hominy directly into the chili before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Real Texas Chili contains roughly 90 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1230mg per serving (53% 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, making chili ahead of time actually enhances its flavor as it sits. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store in the refrigerator. It can be made up to two days in advance, allowing the spices to meld beautifully before serving.
What can I use instead of chili powder?
If you don't have chili powder, you can create your own blend using a mix of cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried oregano. Adjust the ratios based on your spice preference. This homemade version can provide a fresh and unique flavor to your chili.
How can I make my chili thicker?
To thicken your chili, you can add a bit of flour or cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Another option is to mash some of the beans in the chili to naturally thicken it.
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).