Chasen’s Chili Recipe
This captivating recipe claims to be the “original” Chasen’s Chili, a dish allegedly favored by the legendary Elizabeth Taylor during her time on the set of Cleopatra. While reviews may suggest this is not the precise recipe she enjoyed, it certainly carries an interesting narrative and could be an adventure in cooking for those willing to explore its flavors. Here, you will find a detailed guide to preparing this chili, complete with nutritional information and ingredients, for your culinary journey.
Cooking Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Prep Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Servings | Approximately 6 |
Description
While the origins of this recipe are intriguing, the low ratings may caution you against trying it, as many who have sampled it might suggest it is not a worthy contender for your table. Nevertheless, the ingredients and cooking process promise a hearty chili that could be a comforting meal option, especially in cooler months.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pinto beans | 1/2 cup |
| Canned tomatoes | 5 cups |
| Green bell pepper | 1, diced |
| Onions | 1 1/2, chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 1 1/2, minced |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Ground beef | 2 1/2 cups |
| Chili powder | 1/3 cup |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Accent seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 569.9 |
| Total Fat | 39.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 134.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1762.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g |
| Sugars | 7.5 g |
| Protein | 33.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Beans: Begin by soaking the washed pinto beans in a generous amount of water overnight, allowing them to absorb moisture and soften. This initial step is crucial for achieving a tender texture in your chili.
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Cook the Beans: After soaking, drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Simmer the beans covered in the same water over medium heat until they are tender, which should take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the freshness of your beans.
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Add Tomatoes: Once the beans are tender, stir in the canned tomatoes and allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This step enhances the overall flavor profile by integrating the acidity and sweetness of the tomatoes.
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Sauté Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced green bell pepper and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens. Following this, incorporate the chopped onions and continue to cook until they become tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Incorporate Garlic and Parsley: To the softened vegetables, add the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to cook for another minute, releasing the aromatic qualities of the garlic.
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Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the ground beef and sauté until browned, which should take about 15 minutes. It’s important to ensure the meat is well-cooked and crumbled.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the browned meat to the onion and vegetable mixture. Stir in the chili powder and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the meat and vegetables.
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Mix with Beans: Carefully add the meat and vegetable mixture to the pot containing the cooked beans. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, cumin seeds, and Accent seasoning, stirring everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Simmer the Chili: Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 1 hour over low heat. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory chili.
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Final Cooking: After the hour has passed, remove the lid and continue to simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes. This will help thicken the chili and concentrate the flavors further.
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Skim Fat: As the chili cooks, you may notice some fat rising to the surface. Use a spoon to skim off any excess fat for a lighter final dish.
Conclusion
Chasen’s Chili is a dish that carries a story and might serve as an interesting conversation starter, even if its culinary reputation may not be stellar. This recipe, while perhaps not the one sent to the set of Cleopatra, offers a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy gathering or a comforting dinner at home. As you embark on preparing this chili, you may find that it brings warmth and flavor, regardless of its mixed reviews. Happy cooking!
