Idaho Chili Stew

Idaho Chili Stew Recipe - A Hearty and Delicious USA Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Idaho Chili Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This stew is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The combination of garbanzo beans, lentils, and vegetables creates a delicious and filling stew that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Idaho Chili Stew is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed by families in Idaho for generations. This stew is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying on a cozy night at home. The combination of ingredients in this stew reflects the rich agricultural heritage of Idaho, with potatoes, lentils, and carrots being staple crops in the state.

Ingredients

2 cups tomato juice
1 can (15 or 19 oz (539 g)) garbanzo beans, undrained
1 cup water
1 medium potato, peeled and chopped
0.5 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
1 medium carrot, cut into 1 inch strips or sliced
1 tbsp cooked bacon pieces
1 tbsp minced dried onions
2 tsp chili powder
1 beef bouillon powder
0.25 cup sour cream or shredded cheddar cheese
snipped chives (optional)
tortilla chips (optional)

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, combine tomato juice, garbanzo beans (undrained), water, potato, lentils, carrot, bacon pieces, onion, chili powder, and bouillon powder.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Spoon the soup into bowls.
If desired, top with sour cream or cheese and sprinkle with snipped chives.
Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips, if desired.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use sweet potatoes or butternut squash in place of regular potatoes for a different twist.
Add ground beef or turkey for a meatier version of the stew.
Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter for a rich and creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse and drain the lentils before adding them to the stew to remove any excess starch.

- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the garbanzo beans with a fork before adding them to the pot.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences - add more for a spicier stew or less for a milder flavor.

- For a smoky flavor, you can use smoked paprika in place of regular chili powder.

- To save time, you can use canned garbanzo beans instead of dried beans, just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the stew.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Idaho Chili Stew with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with sour cream, cheese, and chives for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the stew on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the stew occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth in place of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute black beans or kidney beans for garbanzo beans.

- Use green or brown lentils in place of red lentils.

- Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of the stew.

Make Ahead Tips

Idaho Chili Stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Idaho Chili Stew in individual bowls garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. - Top the stew with a handful of tortilla chips for added crunch and texture. - Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Idaho Chili Stew with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.

- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a light and refreshing side dish.

- Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Idaho Chili Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the stew on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

- Alternatively, reheat the stew in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 9g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 3g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

- Calcium: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheddar cheese)

Summary

Idaho Chili Stew is a nutritious and balanced meal that is high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. This stew is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal that will keep you full and energized.

Summary

Idaho Chili Stew is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a cozy night at home or feeding a crowd. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, this stew is a satisfying and comforting dish that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete and delicious meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Idaho Chili Stew. It was a chilly fall evening, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and faded newspaper clippings, my eyes landed on a handwritten note titled "Idaho Chili Stew." The recipe was a blend of traditional chili ingredients with a unique twist that caught my attention.

Growing up in Idaho, I was no stranger to hearty stews and comforting dishes. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, had passed down her love for cooking to me at a young age. She would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching me the secrets of making the perfect pie crust or how to season a pot of soup just right. It was in her kitchen that I learned the importance of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and taking the time to prepare meals with love and care.

As I read through the recipe for Idaho Chili Stew, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The ingredients were simple yet flavorful, including ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, beans, and a special blend of spices that gave the stew its distinct Idahoan flair. The recipe called for simmering the stew for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, comforting dish that would warm you from the inside out.

I knew that I had to try making this Idaho Chili Stew for myself, not only to honor my great-grandmother's legacy but also to add a new recipe to my repertoire. I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, chopping onions, browning the ground beef, and sautéing garlic until it was fragrant. As the stew simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its savory aroma, I couldn't help but smile at the memories it brought back.

After several hours of simmering, the Idaho Chili Stew was ready to be served. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of chopped green onions. The first bite was like a taste of home, with the flavors of the beef, beans, and tomatoes blending together in perfect harmony. The spices added a subtle kick that lingered on my tongue, reminding me of the rugged beauty of the Idaho landscape.

I shared the Idaho Chili Stew with my family, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My children asked for second helpings, and my husband declared it one of the best stews he had ever tasted. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I had successfully recreated a recipe that had been passed down through generations and brought joy to my loved ones.

Since that day, Idaho Chili Stew has become a staple in our household, especially during the colder months when a steaming bowl of stew is just what we need to warm our souls. I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe over the years, experimenting with different types of beans or adding in some diced potatoes for extra heartiness. But no matter how I prepare it, the flavors of Idaho Chili Stew always bring me back to that moment in my great-grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by love and laughter.

As I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make Idaho Chili Stew, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my family and honor the traditions that have shaped who I am today. And with each bowl of Idaho Chili Stew that I serve, I am reminded of the love and care that goes into creating a meal that nourishes both body and soul.