Tony G'S Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring ground beef, kidney beans, and rich tomato base, perfect for comforting gatherings and chili lovers seeking a savory, spicy dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions in a small amount of olive oil until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the onions and cook until browned.
- If using dried beans, cook them in water in a large pot for about 30 minutes.
- Add the beef mixture to a large pot with 3 quarts of water.
- Add the tomato puree, sugar, vinegar, and kidney beans to the pot.
- Cook for 1.5 hours if using dried beans, or cook for 30 minutes, then add canned beans and cook another 30 minutes.
- Skim off any grease from the surface of the chili.
- Thicken the chili with flour as needed.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños along with the onions. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, and feel free to use different beans or incorporate corn for added texture. Skimming grease is essential for a cleaner finish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Garnish with sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with the Do Ahead Beef Noodle Bake for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tony G'S Chili contains roughly 745 calories, with 32g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and iron (70% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1358mg per serving (59% 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 different types of beans in this chili?
Absolutely! While kidney beans are traditional, you can mix in black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that if you're using dried beans, they need to be cooked before adding to the chili.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when cooking the onions. Additionally, a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can elevate the spice level according to your taste.
What can I serve with Tony G's Chili?
This chili is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with sides like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. Pairing it with the Hot Party Dip can also create a fun and interactive dining experience for gatherings.
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).