Scrumptious Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili packed with tender beans, seasoned ground beef, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash beans and soak in water overnight.
- Simmer beans in covered pot for 2 to 3 hours until tender, using the same water.
- Add stewed tomatoes to the bean mixture and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Saute minced garlic, sliced onions, and chopped green peppers in 1 tablespoon of oil for 15 minutes.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the bean mixture.
- Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add the browned beef to the bean mixture.
- Add chili powder, salt, and cumin seed to the mixture and simmer covered for 2 hours.
- Remove the cover and cook slowly for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the chili. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or extra beans. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the flavor profile. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as it simmers, allowing the spices to develop fully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this scrumptious chili with a dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Mexican Tortilla Casserole or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh salad or tortilla chips for dipping. Feel free to top with shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers and use within 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scrumptious Chili contains roughly 1627 calories, with 40g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 119g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (176% of the Daily Value), and calcium (114% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% 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 types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While pinto beans are traditional, you can mix and match with black beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked properly if using dried beans, or drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To amp up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to control the spice level. Just remember to balance the heat with other flavors in the dish.
Can I prepare the chili in advance?
Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving. This makes it ideal for meal prep or serving at gatherings, like a potluck or family dinner.
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).