Sweet 'N Sour Chili
A hearty sweet 'n sour chili featuring tender ground beef, kidney beans, and a tangy-sweet sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring all ingredients to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for one hour.
- Serve hot over Cheddar broccoli rice or your preferred side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker chili, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last 10 minutes of simmering. If you're short on ingredients, canned black beans can substitute for kidney beans, and you can use fresh or dried parsley instead of flakes. To enhance flavor, a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder can add a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet 'N Sour Chili is delicious served hot over Cheddar broccoli rice for a comforting meal. You can also pair it with crusty bread or serve it with a side of cornbread for a classic touch. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables alongside. It also complements well with other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour Chili contains roughly 640 calories, with 32g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and iron (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 31g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! You can mix and match different beans based on your preference. Black beans or pinto beans work well in this recipe and can add an extra layer of flavor. Just ensure to rinse and drain them if using canned varieties.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the hamburger and replacing it with a plant-based meat substitute or additional beans. You might also want to add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust the heat?
This chili is on the mild side due to the sweet and sour balance. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to your taste. Adjust the heat gradually to find your perfect level of spice.
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).