Uncle Jay'S Homemade Chili
A hearty and flavorful homemade chili featuring lean ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown beef in a skillet; add chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cook until tender.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add kidney beans, tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, salt, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes or 6 hours in a crock-pot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats, such as turkey or pork. If you're looking to make this chili vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference, and feel free to add bell peppers or jalapeños for extra heat. For a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer or add a can of tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with Meatball Macaroni Supper for a comforting dinner spread. Consider offering tortilla chips for scooping, or serve it with a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water if it appears too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Jay'S Homemade Chili contains roughly 998 calories, with 51g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), protein (102% of the Daily Value), and iron (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1694mg per serving (74% 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 advance?
Absolutely! Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with less chili powder and taste as you go. You can also add milder ingredients like bell peppers or diced tomatoes to balance the heat. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or use a spicier chili powder blend.
What can I serve with this chili?
In addition to cornbread and rice, consider serving it with toppings like avocado slices or fresh cilantro. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, you might explore other Beef recipes that complement chili.
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).