Sarah'S Chili
Sarah's Chili offers a hearty and flavorful dish with rich tomato and savory ground beef notes, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its balanced spices and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy classic comfort food with a hint of smoky heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground chuck with 1/4 cup water until browned.
- Combine the cooked beef, tomato sauce, catsup, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Sarah's Chili, consider adding diced onions and garlic while browning the meat. For a spicier kick, you can include chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chuck with a plant-based ground meat alternative for a delicious twist. Adjust the chili powder to match your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sarah's Chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Virginia Pickles as a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider offering cornbread or tortilla chips on the side, and a light salad such as Gingered Carrots to balance the richness of the chili.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sarah'S Chili contains roughly 106 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2331mg per serving (101% 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, Sarah's Chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat it when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
You can boost the nutritional value of this chili by adding canned beans, such as kidney or black beans, for extra fiber and protein. Additionally, incorporating diced bell peppers or zucchini can enhance the vegetable content, making it a heartier dish.
Is there a way to thicken the chili?
If you find your chili too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, stirring in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve a thicker consistency without altering the flavor.
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).