Steve'S Chili Concoction
A hearty, flavorful chili with rich tomato and bean goodness, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, featuring a blend of spices and savory ground meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In margarine, braise the ground meat, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic in a large pot.
- Heat until the meat is browned and vegetables are softened.
- Add broken-up tomatoes, drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil over an open fire or stove.
- Reduce heat and simmer until flavors meld and chili is thickened, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water when simmering the chili. If you're out of chili powder, a mix of cumin, paprika, and cayenne can serve as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for textured vegetable protein or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead. Experiment with additional spices like oregano or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad or tortilla chips for crunch. This chili also pairs beautifully with Eva Cranford'S Chuck Wagon Stew for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steve'S Chili Concoction contains roughly 1066 calories, with 21g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (477% of the Daily Value), iron (162% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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! In fact, chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can make it a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To increase the heat, add more chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also enhance the spice level without altering the overall flavor profile.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned beans are a great time-saver. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the chili to reduce sodium content. This recipe already calls for canned kidney beans, making it a convenient choice for a quick meal.
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).