Chili Recipe:
Description: This flavorful chili recipe offers both a vegetarian option and the option to add meat, ensuring a dish that satisfies all preferences. Despite being meatless, it’s incredibly hearty and fulfilling, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s not too spicy, making it suitable for the whole family!
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Preparation Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 10
Yield: 4-5 quarts
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 | Onion |
| 1 | Garlic clove |
| 2 tsp | Chili powder |
| 2 tsp | Oregano |
| 1/2 tsp | Cumin |
| 1/4 tsp | Salt |
| 1 dash | Tabasco sauce |
| 1 tbsp | Catsup |
| 1 tbsp | Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 | Zucchini |
| 1 | Carrot |
| 1 | Green pepper |
| 1 can | Tomatoes |
| 1 can | Garbanzo beans |
| 1 can | Black-eyed peas |
| 1 can | Black beans |
Instructions:
-
Optional Step for Meaty Version: If you’re opting for chili with meat, start by sautéing ground chuck in a large pot until it’s fully cooked. Once done, drain it using a sieve and set it aside for later.
-
In the same pot, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until the onion turns soft and translucent, infusing the oil with their flavors.
-
Mix in the chili powder, oregano, cumin, salt, Tabasco sauce, catsup, and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined for a robust flavor base.
-
For the Meaty Version: Now’s the time to reintroduce the cooked ground chuck into the pot, adding a hearty meatiness to the chili.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Let it cook for approximately 45 minutes, ensuring to occasionally stir and scrape the bottom to prevent sticking.
-
At this stage, you might find that the liquid level is not as high as you expected. Don’t worry! Simply add the reserved tomato juice from the canned tomatoes to achieve the desired consistency.
-
If the chili becomes too watery for your liking, a clever trick is to sprinkle in some dried bread crumbs. This will help to thicken the chili while subtly enhancing its flavor.
-
Before serving, take a moment to taste the chili and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Whether you desire a touch more spice or a hint of sweetness, tailor it to suit your taste buds perfectly.
-
To elevate your chili experience, serve it piping hot with dollops of sour cream and a generous sprinkling of shredded cheddar cheese. These creamy and cheesy toppings add richness and depth to each spoonful.
-
For an even more intense flavor profile, consider making this chili a day in advance and allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator. Reheating it the next day will further marry the flavors, resulting in a chili that’s even more delicious and satisfying.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 205.3
- Fat Content: 3.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 1092mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 37g
- Fiber Content: 10g
- Sugar Content: 7.9g
- Protein Content: 9.8g
This chili recipe is not only incredibly tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for any mealtime. Whether you’re a meat lover or a dedicated vegetarian, this versatile dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich aroma and comforting warmth of this delightful chili, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones.
