Super Chili
A hearty, spicy chili packed with ground meats, beans, and rich spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and fans of bold, smoky flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil ⓘ
- 2 large yellow onions ⓘ
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef ⓘ
- 1 1/2 pounds ground pork ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/3 cup mild, unseasoned chili powder ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons ground cumin ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons dried oregano ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon ⓘ
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper ⓘ
- 4 cups tomato juice ⓘ
- 3 cups beef stock ⓘ
- 8 garlic cloves ⓘ
- 2 to 3 tablespoons yellow cornmeal ⓘ
- 2 cans (16 oz. each) dark red kidney beans ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
- Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until very tender, about 20 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in salt, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, unsweetened cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour in tomato juice and beef stock, stirring to combine.
- Add the minced garlic and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Optional: Thicken the chili with 2 to 3 tablespoons of yellow cornmeal, stirring well.
- Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans to the chili.
- Simmer the chili uncovered for at least 1 hour to develop flavors, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a mix of ground meats like ground turkey or lamb alongside the beef and pork. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper or substitute with smoked paprika. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of brown sugar for sweetness. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Super Chili with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture. This dish pairs beautifully with Chipped Beef Bread Dip as an appetizer or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stove over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the chili if it thickens during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Super Chili contains roughly 3218 calories, with 83g protein, 484g carbohydrates, and 165g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (785% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and protein (166% 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, making chili a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply prepare the chili as directed, then cool it completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve, adding a little water or broth if needed.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this chili, substitute the ground beef and pork with a mix of diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add lentils or quinoa for a protein boost while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
What can I serve with Super Chili?
Super Chili is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with crunchy tortilla chips or fresh bread for dipping. For a lighter option, a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad works wonderfully. You can also offer toppings like avocado or jalapeños for added flair.
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).