Ron'S Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot.
- Add the chopped celery and onions to the beef.
- Add some water and cook until the vegetables are soft.
- Add the kidney beans, tomato juice, tomato sauce, bay leaves, ground cloves, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture in the large pot for 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef with some minced garlic or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with textured vegetable protein or lentils. Adjust the spice level by adding chili powder or diced jalapeños. For a different twist, you can include corn or bell peppers, similar to variations found in some American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ron's Chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Grandma Eleanor'S American Chop Suey as a comforting dinner option. Consider a simple green salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. For long-term storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ron'S Chili contains roughly 1178 calories, with 44g protein, 238g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (345% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (129% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1922mg per serving (84% 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 different beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for variation. Just ensure you rinse and drain canned beans before adding them to the pot to reduce sodium content.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Another option is to mash some of the beans or add a tablespoon of cornmeal or flour mixed with water to give it a heartier texture.
Is it okay to make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, making chili ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. In fact, many people find that chili tastes even better the next day. Just refrigerate it after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. It's perfect for meal prep!
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).