South Of The Border Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with tender pork and bold spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and those who enjoy a spicy, savory dish with beans and a rich chili flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large 5-quart Dutch oven, brown the pork in 2 tablespoons of oil.
- When the meat is browned, push it to the side of the pan and add 1 tablespoon of oil and 1/4 cup of flour.
- Brown the flour, then add 2 to 3 tablespoons of chili powder and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Mix well to combine the spices.
- Add 2 1/2 cups of warm water and mix well.
- Add the beans to the mixture.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add additional water until the pot is almost full.
- Cover the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Stir frequently during simmering.
- Adjust chili powder or cayenne pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions and bell peppers when browning the pork. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with mushrooms or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the heat by varying the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice tolerance. This chili pairs well with corn muffins or can be served over rice for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the South Of The Border Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese. It can be enjoyed on its own or served with tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, pair it with Mexican recipes like Mexican Omelets or Taco Ritos to create a festive dining experience.
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 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Of The Border Chili contains roughly 8 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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! Feel free to use any beans you prefer, such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Each type will add its own unique flavor and texture to the chili, making it a versatile dish that you can customize to your liking.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers during the cooking process. You can also serve the chili with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes, this chili is perfect for making ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving, as mentioned in the storage section.
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).