Texas-style Chili

Texas-Style Chili Recipe with Beef and Corn

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Texas-style 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 bold flavors and spices that will warm you up from the inside out.

History

Texas-style chili has a long and rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. It is said to have originated in San Antonio, Texas, where a group of women known as the "Chili Queens" would sell their spicy stew to passersby in the town square. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and been passed down through generations, with each cook adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) lean ground beef
2 medium onions, chopped or minced, yellow only
1 large green pepper, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans tomatoes with puree or 2 cups tomato sauce
2 cups water
1 can tomato paste
8 beef flavored bouillon cubes
2 tbsp chili powder
1.88 tbsp ground cumin
2.75 tbsp oregano
2.75 tbsp sugar
corn chips, optional
shredded sharp cheese (parmesan, mozzarella, colby, or swiss), optional

How to prepare

In a large skillet, brown or stir-fry the ground beef with the oil. Drain the fat.
Add the onion, green pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until tender.
Add the remaining ingredients except for the chips and cheese. Mix well and cover.
Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally or until the meat is tender.
Serve hot with corn chips and shredded cheese.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans.
Add a can of diced tomatoes for a chunkier chili.
Experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto or black beans, for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, try using a combination of ground beef and ground pork in this recipe.

- To make this chili even spicier, add a chopped jalapeno pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

- For a thicker chili, add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans.

- To save time, you can brown the ground beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to make the chili.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

To enhance the flavors of the spices, toast them in a dry skillet before adding them to the chili.

- Simmer the chili on low heat for a longer period of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.

- Substitute the green pepper with red or yellow bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the chili with a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This chili pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of red wine. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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 this Texas-style chili contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This Texas-style chili recipe contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of this chili contains around 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

With 30 grams of protein per serving, this chili is a great source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

This chili is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Texas-style chili is a well-rounded dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Texas-style chili is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Texas-style chili. It was a hot summer day in Austin, Texas and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the local farmers market. As I made my way through the stalls, the scent of spices and herbs filled the air, drawing me towards a small stand where a friendly elderly couple were selling jars of homemade chili seasoning.

Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with the couple and learned that they had been making and selling their special blend of chili seasoning for over 50 years. They shared with me their secret recipe, passed down through generations, and I knew I had to try it for myself. I purchased a jar of their seasoning and eagerly headed home to whip up a batch of Texas-style chili.

As I carefully measured out the spices and browned the ground beef, I could already tell that this chili was going to be something special. The aroma that wafted through my kitchen was intoxicating, a rich blend of cumin, chili powder, and paprika that made my mouth water in anticipation.

I let the chili simmer on the stove for hours, allowing the flavors to meld and develop into a rich, complex dish that I knew would be a hit with my family. When it was finally ready, I ladled generous servings into bowls and topped them with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

My family's eyes lit up as they took their first bites, savoring the smoky, spicy flavors of the Texas-style chili. They raved about how delicious it was, how the heat of the peppers was just right, and how the seasoning was perfectly balanced. I couldn't help but beam with pride as they asked for seconds and thirds, scraping their bowls clean.

From that day on, Texas-style chili became a staple in our household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and game day parties, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I happily shared the secret of the special seasoning blend, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to friends and neighbors.

Over the years, I have continued to make Texas-style chili, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have added extra beans, experimented with different types of meat, and even thrown in some corn and sweet potatoes for a unique twist. But no matter how I choose to make it, the essence of that original recipe from the farmers market remains, reminding me of the joy I felt when I first discovered it.

And now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling chili on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that this dish has brought into my life. It has connected me to a community of chili lovers, brought my family together around the dinner table, and given me a sense of pride in my cooking abilities.

I may have stumbled upon the recipe for Texas-style chili by chance, but it has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire. And as I take a spoonful of the rich, flavorful chili and savor the warmth that spreads through my body, I am reminded once again of the joy that good food can bring.