Tennessee Chili
Tennessee Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a tangy vinegar kick, perfect for casual gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a saucepan, stirring constantly.
- Add chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, and chopped bell peppers. Cook until soft.
- Add the cans of chili with hot beans, chili powder, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Stir in the vinegar to add a tangy flavor.
- Simmer the chili for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with a fresh tossed salad and crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with some diced bacon or smoked sausage. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicier chili, add fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the chili powder to your taste; some brands can be quite potent. You can also use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tennessee Chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a fresh tossed salad and crackers, or serve it over rice for a heartier meal. For an excellent side, try some cornbread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious chili. This dish is perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Tennessee Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Chili contains roughly 459 calories, with 10g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or a mix of beans like black beans and kidney beans. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as plant-based meats may require less time to cook.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a tablespoon of sugar or honey. Additionally, incorporating a dollop of sour cream or serving it with creamy toppings can help mellow the spice. Adding more beans or tomatoes can also dilute the heat without losing flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor of my chili?
To enhance the flavor of your chili, consider adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder, which adds depth. You can also include cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist. Simmering the chili longer develops richer flavors, so don't rush the cooking process.
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).