Michelle’s Special (Secret) Recipe Chili is a delightful creation perfect for those chilly Cincinnati days when the rain drizzles down, and a warm, comforting meal is just what the soul craves. Crafted by the imaginative hands of a 10-year-old culinary prodigy named Michelle, this recipe is a testament to her boundless creativity and love for cooking, as she dreams of one day becoming a renowned chef.
Belonging to the hearty category of meat-based dishes, this chili carries the essence of Tex Mex and Southwestern U.S. flavors, infusing every spoonful with a tantalizing combination of spices and aromatics. Classified as “Spicy” and suitable for busy weeknights, it’s a stove-top marvel that comes together in under 4 hours, requiring just a brief 20 minutes of prep time and 2 hours of cooking time, making it an easy addition to any culinary repertoire.
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this recipe, starting with the ingredients that make it truly special. To replicate Michelle’s masterpiece, you’ll need the following:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 can of chili beans
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 onion
- 1 teaspoon of lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 6 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 3 tablespoons of Heinz ketchup
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
These ingredients come together harmoniously, each contributing its own unique flavor profile to the final dish. From the savory richness of the ground beef to the earthy notes of oregano and the zesty kick of chili powder, every element plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
In terms of nutrition, Michelle’s chili is both hearty and wholesome, with each serving containing approximately 312 calories. It’s a balanced meal, offering a satisfying dose of protein (22.1g), carbohydrates (29.3g), and fiber (6.4g), making it a filling option for those seeking both flavor and sustenance.
To prepare Michelle’s Special (Secret) Recipe Chili, follow these simple instructions:
- Begin by cooking the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked, add in the chili beans, tomato sauce, diced onion, lemon pepper, oregano, mint leaves, chili powder, minced garlic, Heinz ketchup, and a splash of Tabasco sauce to taste.
- Stir the ingredients together until well combined, then cover the pot and let the chili simmer gently for approximately 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
- After 2 hours, give the chili a final taste test, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
- To serve, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of Parmesan, American, or cheddar cheese to elevate the flavor profile even further.
- For a satisfying meal, pair the chili with crackers and a peanut butter sandwich, or serve it over spaghetti for a unique twist. For an extra burst of flavor, top each serving with fresh diced onion for added zing.
With its robust flavors, satisfying texture, and simple preparation, Michelle’s Special (Secret) Recipe Chili is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household, warming hearts and bellies alike with each spoonful. So, the next time the weather takes a turn for the cold, channel your inner chef and whip up a batch of this comforting chili to bring a taste of culinary adventure to your table.
