Tonda'S Homemade Chili
A hearty homemade chili with rich tomato flavor, smoky chili powder, and savory beans, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Blend tomatoes in a blender until smooth.
- Add the blended tomatoes, beans, and chili powder to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the chili for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika to the chili. You can substitute ground meat with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of tomatoes or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end. Also, using fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Dilly-Bacon Cornbread for a comforting meal. Consider offering toppings like avocado or jalapeños for added flavor. This dish also works well alongside a fresh salad or tortilla chips.
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 medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tonda'S Homemade Chili contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 534mg per serving (23% 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 use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned beans are a convenient option. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the chili. Using canned beans will save you time and still provide a deliciously hearty texture.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground meat and use additional beans or lentils for protein. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, for added flavor and nutrition.
What can I do if the chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a bit of sugar or honey. Additionally, serving it with sour cream or yogurt can help to cool down the spice level.
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).