Red Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and bold chili spices, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings with friends or family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the steak in hot oil in a Dutch oven.
- Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add water, tomato sauce, chili powder, and crushed garlic; bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For more depth in flavor, consider marinating the top round steak in a mixture of lime juice and spices before browning. If you prefer a thicker chili, add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the tomato sauce. You can also substitute the top round steak with ground turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty red chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of brown rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Fat-Free Tortilla Chips for a crunchy contrast. Consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness, and serve alongside a fresh Orange Cranberry Salsa Garnish for a refreshing balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Chili contains roughly 113 calories, with 5g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1975mg per serving (86% 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 use a different cut of meat for this chili?
Yes, you can use various cuts such as chuck roast or even ground beef. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; tougher cuts may need longer simmering to become tender.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. Additionally, using a spicier chili powder can also enhance the overall heat of the dish.
Is this chili suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
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).