Quick Southwestern Chili

Quick Southwestern Chili Recipe

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

This Quick Southwestern Chili recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you up on a chilly day.

History

Southwestern chili has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, with influences from Native American and Spanish cooking. The combination of beans, meat, and spices has been a staple in Southwestern cuisine for centuries.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of lean ground sirloin
2 cans of kidney beans
1 can of pinto beans
3 cans of black beans
1 can of whole kernel corn
1 can of pitted black olives
1 small white onion, diced
1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can of stewed tomatoes
1 package of taco seasoning mix
1 package of ranch dressing mix

How to prepare

Brown the sirloin with the onion, then drain the grease. Stir in all the remaining ingredients to mix well.
Simmer for 30 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the ground sirloin and add extra beans or tofu.
Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Experiment with different types of beans, such as black-eyed peas or chickpeas.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To add extra flavor, try using a combination of ground beef and ground pork.

- For a spicier chili, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Cornbread or tortilla chips make great accompaniments.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the chili for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and hearty dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground sirloin, and adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Make Ahead Tips

This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your chili with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a slice of avocado for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This chili pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of cornbread. A cold beer or a glass of red wine complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Quick Southwestern Chili contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Quick Southwestern Chili contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Quick Southwestern Chili contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Quick Southwestern Chili contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but be sure to check the labels on your ingredients for any potential allergens.

Summary

This Quick Southwestern Chili is a nutritious and satisfying meal that is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a balanced diet.

Summary

This Quick Southwestern Chili is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Packed with protein and fiber, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the Southwestern United States. The flavors and spices of the region had captivated me, and I was determined to recreate them in my own kitchen.

As I unpacked my bags, I discovered a small, handwritten recipe card tucked away in a pocket of my suitcase. It was titled "Quick Southwestern Chili" and listed a variety of ingredients that I had never used before. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients - ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and a few other spices - and set to work in the kitchen. As I browned the beef and sautéed the onions and garlic, the aroma of the spices filled the air, transporting me back to the desert landscapes of the Southwest.

Once the chili had simmered and thickened to perfection, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. With a warm tortilla on the side, it was a meal fit for a king.

My family gathered around the table, eager to try my latest culinary creation. As they took their first bites, their eyes lit up with delight. The flavors were bold and complex, with just the right amount of heat. They devoured their bowls of chili in record time, declaring it the best they had ever tasted.

From that day on, Quick Southwestern Chili became a staple in our household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a rainy day. Each time I prepared it, I was reminded of the journey that had led me to this recipe and the wonderful memories I had made along the way.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with countless friends and family members, each of whom has added their own twist to it. Some have added more vegetables, while others have experimented with different types of beans or meats. But no matter how it is prepared, Quick Southwestern Chili always remains a crowd-pleaser.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the countless times I have made this dish, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me as a cook. From my travels through the Southwest to the friendships I have forged in the kitchen, each one has left its mark on my culinary journey.

And so, as I pass this recipe down to future generations, I do so with a sense of pride and joy. May it bring as much happiness and warmth to their homes as it has to mine.