Best Cook’s Hard Times Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15.5 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Nutritional Value
One serving of this hard times chili recipe provides approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g
FAQ
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the ground beef and substitute it with your favorite vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Additionally, consider adding more beans or textured vegetable protein for added protein.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Certainly! Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of chili powder and paprika according to your preferred level of spiciness. If you prefer a milder chili, start with smaller amounts and taste as you go.