Theresa'S Chili
Theresa's Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish with rich beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and chili lovers seeking bold, spicy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a large kettle.
- Drain excess fat from the browned mixture.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- In the same kettle, mix hot chili beans, tomato juice, paprika, red pepper, and chili powder.
- Tie cloves and bay leaf in a piece of cheesecloth and add to the bean mixture.
- Add the browned beef, onion, and green pepper to the bean mixture.
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Simmer over medium heat for 1 hour, removing the cheesecloth with cloves and bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of beer during cooking. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Adjust the chili powder to your taste preference, and feel free to add more vegetables like corn or diced tomatoes to enhance the dish. This chili pairs beautifully with Beef For Buns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Theresa's Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream can enhance the flavors. Pair it with a simple green salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. This dish also makes for a great filling for tacos or burritos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, making sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Theresa'S Chili contains roughly 661 calories, with 39g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (537% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (98% of the Daily Value), and iron (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1390mg per serving (60% 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 make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a mix of beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein. Be sure to adjust the spices accordingly to maintain flavor. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for added texture.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat in Theresa's Chili, consider adding minced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You can also use spicier chili powder or include cayenne pepper. Start with small amounts to ensure the heat remains enjoyable for all palates.
Can I freeze leftover chili?
Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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).