Tomatoless Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili without tomatoes, featuring tender beans, savory beef, and bold spices, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop garlic and onions.
- Saute garlic and onions in a small amount of butter until translucent.
- Add 1 tablespoon chili powder and stir to combine.
- If desired, add an additional tablespoon chili powder for more heat.
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet.
- Add 1 tablespoon chili powder and a dash of salt to the browned hamburger.
- Stir in 1/4 cup flour into the hamburger mixture.
- Add kidney beans, Mexican style chili beans, water, green pepper, and more chili powder to taste.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 4 to 5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with crackers or buttered bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some diced jalapeños for extra heat. If you're short on time, use canned beans to cut down on cooking time. Additionally, feel free to substitute the hamburger meat with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty tomatoless chili pairs wonderfully with crackers or buttered bread for a comforting meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or cornbread for a well-rounded dinner. For an extra kick, top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. This dish is also great for game day gatherings or family dinners.
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 stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoless Chili contains roughly 849 calories, with 30g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), iron (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1118mg per serving (49% 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?
Absolutely! Simply replace the hamburger meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use additional beans and lentils for protein. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the texture and flavor of the chili.
How can I thicken my chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or stir in a bit of cornmeal or masa harina. Allow it to simmer for a bit longer to let the flavors meld while achieving your desired consistency.
What can I add for extra flavor?
To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or even a bit of cocoa powder for depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish just before serving.
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).