True To Texas Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili featuring tender beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for comforting gatherings and satisfying chili lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown onion, garlic, and beef together in a 6-quart Dutch oven.
- Add tomato sauce and spices to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add kidney beans to the pot.
- Simmer the chili for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef cuts, such as chuck and brisket. If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder. You can substitute the kidney beans with black beans for a different texture or omit them entirely for a meatier dish. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the True To Texas Chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Blue Cheese Burgers for a delightful backyard cookout. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor. This dish also makes a great filling for burritos or chili dogs.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chili can be stored 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 a covered bowl until heated through. If the chili thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of True To Texas Chili contains roughly 1208 calories, with 60g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (269% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 989mg per serving (43% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef, onion, and garlic first, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, slow-simmered flavor.
Is it necessary to soak the beans before adding them?
If you are using canned kidney beans, there's no need to soak them. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the chili. If you choose to use dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to your chili.
What can I add to make it less spicy?
To reduce the spice level in your chili, you can decrease the amount of cumin and omit any spicy peppers. Adding a teaspoon of sugar or honey can also help balance the heat. Additionally, serving it with sour cream can help tone down the spice.
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).