Chunky Chili

Chunky Chili Recipe - A Hearty and Delicious Dish from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chunky chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

History

Chili has a long history in American cuisine, with roots dating back to the early settlers and cowboys who cooked hearty stews over open fires. Over the years, chili has evolved into a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) of beef, top round steak, trimmed of separable fat
2 corn tortillas
Nonstick spray coating
0.5 cup of chopped onion
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz or 425 g) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) of low-sodium tomatoes, undrained
1 cup of water
1 can (4.5 oz or 128 g) of diced green chile peppers
1.5 tsp of snipped fresh basil or 0.5 tsp of dried basil, crushed
1 tsp of chili powder
1 tsp of instant beef bouillon granules
0.25 tsp of ground cumin
0.25 tsp of black pepper
0.25 cup of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (1 oz or 28 g)

How to prepare

Partially freeze the meat for about 30 minutes.
Thinly slice the meat across the grain into bite-size strips.
Cut or tear the tortillas into bite-size strips.
Spread the tortilla strips on an ungreased baking sheet.
Bake the tortilla strips in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until they are crisp and dry. Set them aside.
Spray a large skillet with nonstick coating. Preheat it over medium-high heat.
Add the meat, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook and stir until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
Stir in the kidney beans, undrained tomatoes, water, chile peppers, basil, chili powder, bouillon granules, cumin, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until the meat is tender.
Ladle the mixture into individual serving bowls.
Sprinkle each serving with some of the tortilla strips and 1 tbsp of shredded cheese.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Top with avocado slices or sour cream for added creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Partially freezing the meat before slicing it will make it easier to cut into thin strips.

- Baking the tortilla strips in the oven will give them a crispy texture that adds a nice crunch to the dish.

- Simmering the chili for at least 30 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

Serving Suggestions

Chunky chili can be served with a side of cornbread, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat before adding the other ingredients will enhance the flavor of the chili.

- Simmering the chili on low heat will allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pinto beans or black beans instead of kidney beans.

- Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes.

- Use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon granules.

Make Ahead Tips

Chunky chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve chunky chili in individual bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a wedge of lime.

Pairing Recommendations

Chunky chili pairs well with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover chunky chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chunky chili contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chunky chili contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chunky chili contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of chunky chili contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chunky chili is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (tortillas). It may also contain soy (bouillon granules).

Summary

Chunky chili is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chunky chili is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves were falling from the trees and there was a crispness in the air that signaled the arrival of my favorite season. I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that I had collected over the years when I stumbled upon a tattered, stained recipe card for Chunky Chili.

I remember the moment vividly - the faded handwriting, the smudges of chili powder and tomato sauce that adorned the edges of the card. It was like finding buried treasure in my own kitchen. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories came flooding back to me of the countless bowls of chili I had enjoyed over the years, both homemade and from various restaurants and diners.

I knew that this recipe was something special, something that had been passed down from generation to generation. It was a recipe that had been perfected over time, with each cook adding their own unique twist to make it their own. I could almost imagine the aroma of simmering chili filling the kitchen, the warmth of a bowl of hearty soup on a cold winter night.

As I read through the ingredients list, I could tell that this was no ordinary chili recipe. It called for a mix of ground beef and ground turkey, a variety of beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices that promised to pack a flavorful punch. I could hardly wait to get started on making a batch of this Chunky Chili and share it with my family.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set about following the recipe to the letter. I browned the ground beef and turkey in a large pot, savoring the rich, savory aroma that filled the kitchen. I added in the onions, peppers, and garlic, watching as they softened and released their fragrant essence into the pot.

Next came the beans, tomatoes, and spices - a carefully measured blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a hint of cinnamon. I stirred everything together, feeling a sense of satisfaction as the ingredients melded together to create a thick, flavorful chili base.

As the chili simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but think back to all the times I had enjoyed a bowl of chili with my family and friends. Whether it was at a backyard barbecue, a tailgate party, or a cozy night in by the fire, chili had always been a crowd-pleaser.

After letting the chili simmer and thicken for a couple of hours, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a handful of fresh cilantro. The Chunky Chili looked and smelled absolutely delicious, and I couldn't wait to dig in and savor every bite.

As I took my first spoonful of Chunky Chili, I was transported back in time to all the wonderful memories I had shared with loved ones over a steaming bowl of this hearty, comforting dish. The flavors were robust and satisfying, with just the right amount of heat from the spices and a perfect balance of textures from the beans and meat.

I knew that this recipe for Chunky Chili was a keeper, one that would be passed down through the generations in my family. It was a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to nourish both body and soul.

So as I savored every last spoonful of Chunky Chili, I felt grateful for the serendipitous moment when I had stumbled upon this recipe. It was a reminder of the joy and comfort that cooking and sharing a meal can bring, and I knew that this Chunky Chili would always hold a special place in my heart.