Tia'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with rich tomato and beef notes, spiced with chili powders and hot sauces, perfect for comforting gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- Add chopped onions and cook over high heat for 3-4 minutes.
- Add Italian tomatoes in juice and tomato paste to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Let simmer gently for 20 minutes.
- Add strained and rinsed kidney beans, chili powder, Tabasco, crushed red chilis, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for an additional 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier chili, consider using fresh jalapeños or adding more chili powder to taste. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for the beef, making it a healthier choice. You can also incorporate bell peppers or corn for added sweetness and texture. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tia's Chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. Consider offering a side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as part of a game day spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tia'S Chili contains roughly 599 calories, with 37g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), iron (80% of the Daily Value), and protein (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1219mg per serving (53% 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 mixture of beans or lentils. Use additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture. Ensure to adjust the spices to maintain the flavor profile of the original recipe.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer period to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of masa harina or cornmeal can help achieve a thicker consistency without altering the flavor.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, cool it completely, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before serving, and enjoy the enhanced flavors.
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).