Southwestern Cowpoke Chili
A hearty southwestern chili with spicy jalapenos, savory beef, and bold cumin and oregano flavors, perfect for those craving a flavorful and filling comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped jalapenos, lean beef, chopped onions, and chopped garlic until the meat loses its red color.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, pepper, cumin seed, oregano, and 1/4 cup water to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until you've finished the first case of beer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chili, keep the seeds in the jalapenos or add a few extra peppers. If you prefer a milder option, substitute bell peppers for jalapenos. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version. Consider adding black beans or corn for additional texture and flavor. Pair this chili with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro on top. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. It also goes well with a side of Mexican recipes like Quesadilla Stack or a fresh guacamole. For drinks, serve with cold beer to complement the spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southwestern Cowpoke Chili contains roughly 853 calories, with 38g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2032mg per serving (88% 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?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through. This makes it perfect for gatherings or meal prep.
What can I substitute for the meat?
You can easily replace the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian or healthier option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through, and consider adding more vegetables to enhance the flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To control the heat, use fewer jalapenos or substitute them with mild bell peppers. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top can help balance out the spice. For those who enjoy heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to amp up 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).