Spice Up Your Day with Our Delicious Chili Recipe
If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors that pack a punch, then you’re in for a treat. I’m about to share with you my Nan’s famous chili recipe. Now, I know there are countless chili recipes out there, but trust me when I say that this is something special. My Nan’s been making this chili for as long as I can remember, and I must admit it’s my absolute favorite.
When you think of chili, you may picture just any run-of-the-mill stew that can barely warm up your belly. But not with Nan’s chili recipe. If you’re looking for a flavor journey that will take your taste buds on an adventure, you’ve found it with this recipe. It’s packed with smoky spices and aromatic herbs with a liberal blending of fresh vegetables and hearty ground beef. So buckle up and get ready to feast on the most delicious chili ever.
Whether you want to make it on the stovetop or use a slow cooker, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home during the cooler months or anytime comfort food is necessary!
So grab your apron, preheat your oven/turn on that stove and let’s dive into this nana chili recipe like we’re going on an expedition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture a cool autumn evening with a crisp breeze in the air. The sun is setting and your stomach begins to grumble. What on earth could satisfy such a craving? Well, look no further than Nan’s chili recipe. This delicious dish will warm you up and satisfy your appetite in no time.
For starters, this flavorful chili recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients such as lean ground beef, tomatoes, red kidney beans, and spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, you’ll have everything necessary to whip up an amazing pot of chili for any occasion.
What sets Nan’s chili recipe apart from other bland or overly-spicy chili recipes is its perfect balance of flavors. The combination of the subtle heat from the red cayenne pepper and the aroma from the instant minced garlic will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, the robust tomato sauce and diced tomatoes give it a juicy tang that is hard to resist.
This hearty meal packs a nutritional punch as well. It is high in protein thanks to the lean ground beef and fiber-rich kidney beans which are great for digestion. Moreover, this delicious chili recipe also contains essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, potassium and iron that can help sustain energy levels throughout the day.
And let’s not forget about its versatility! You can customize it any way you like with endless substitutions and variations that include adding extra veggies like bell peppers, using turkey instead of beef for a leaner version or even topping it off with cheese or sour cream.
In conclusion, Nan’s chili recipe isn’t just another ordinary recipe- it is an ultimate comfort food that comes packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights, chilling on game days or simply warming up during cold months. So why wait? Let this amazing dish be your next addiction!
Ingredient List
Let’s take a look at the ingredients we will be using to make Nan’s Chili Recipe. This delicious and hearty dish requires a mix of spices and vegetables that come together with the ground beef and kidney beans, making for a mouth-watering classic that will warm your soul!
Here is what you’ll need:
Meat:
- 2 lbs. lean ground beef
Vegetables:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
Spices:
- 1 tbsp. chili powder
- 2 tsp. cumin
- 2 tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. red cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp. salt
Canned Goods:
- 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
- 15 oz. can tomato sauce
- 6 oz. can tomato paste
- Two 15 oz. cans red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Liquid and Other Ingredients:
- 3 cups water
- 1 tbsp. instant minced garlic
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
Gather up all these ingredients in your kitchen because it’s time to get cooking!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to get started on making Nan’s Chili Recipe. It’s a straightforward recipe that is easily adaptable. In fact, you can even use a slow cooker if you like to make this dish.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
The first step is to brown the ground beef. Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in your 2 lbs lean ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Add in Your Vegetables
Once the meat is browned, it’s time to add in your vegetables. Add in 1 chopped onion, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 2 teaspoons of instant minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
Step 3: Tomatoes and Sauce
After sauteing your vegetables, it’s time to add in your canned tomatoes and sauce. Add in a can of diced tomatoes (14 oz.), tomato sauce (15 oz.), and tomato paste (6 oz.). Then pour in 3 cups of water, stirring to fully combine.
Step 4: Seasoning Time
This is where you will add a lot of the flavor into your dish. Add 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of cumin and red cayenne pepper. Be careful with the cayenne pepper – it can get spicy real fast!
Step 5: Kidney Beans
You’re almost done with Nan’s Chili Recipe! The final step is adding in the kidney beans. Drain and rinse one can (14 oz.) of kidney beans before stirring them into the pot.
Step 6: Simmer for Best Results
Simmer your chili on low heat for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. You want all the flavors to marry together so give it time! After simmering for an hour or two, you’ll have delicious homemade chili ready to serve.
I hope you enjoy this recipe and make some tasty chili!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to chili recipes, the possibilities for substitutions and variations are endless. This is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family, and over the years we have experimented with different ingredients and techniques to create unique versions of Nan’s famous chili.
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider trying some of these substitutions and variations:
– Vegetarian Chili: Swap out the ground beef for extra kidney beans or chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
– Slow Cooker Chili: Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors have melded together.
– Spicy Chili: Add more red cayenne pepper or use chili sauce instead of tomato sauce for a spicier kick.
– Naan Bread Chili: Serve your chili over fresh naan bread for an Indian-inspired twist.
– Texas-style Chili: Hold back on the tomato sauce, switch out the kidney beans for black ones and sprinkle in some unsweetened chocolate or espresso powder.
– Haystack Chili pie: add Frito chips at the bottom of bowl before ladling in the chili on top.
– Hot Dog Chili: Add more tomato paste to thicken up your recipe and serve hot dogs or cornbread on top.
Feel free to get creative with your ingredients or put your own spin on Nan’s classic recipe. The beauty of it all is that there’s no right or wrong way to make a delicious chili. Happy experimenting!
Serving and Pairing
As a culinary explorer, I am always on the lookout for the perfect pairing of food and flavors. And when it comes to Nan’s Chili Recipe, there are plenty of options to choose from!
One classic way to serve chili is with some freshly baked cornbread on the side. The sweetness of the cornbread perfectly complements the spiciness of the chili, making for a delicious contrast in every bite.
Another great option is to top your chili with some grated cheese or sour cream. The creaminess of these toppings provides a wonderful counterpoint to the heat of the spices.
If you’re hosting a party or want a more casual dining experience, try serving individual portions in bowls and let your guests make their own custom toppings station with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, jalapenos and extra hot sauce.
For a more unconventional twist, consider putting chili on top of a hot dog or nachos. This would be perfect for game day snack.
Lastly but certainly not least, one cannot forget to pair Nan’s famous chili with cold beers,a Bloody Mary or even wines that have oaky notes as both blends make for an excellent accompaniment to this hearty yet spicy dish.
With so many delicious pairing options available, you’re sure to find something that perfectly complements Nan’s Chili Recipe.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If there’s one thing I love about Nan’s Chili Recipe, it’s that you can make it ahead of time and store the leftovers for later. When you’re preparing for a party or a get-together, make sure to cook enough chili so you can have some for the next day as well. In fact, I recommend making this recipe at least a day in advance to let the different flavors blend together more thoroughly.
Storing Nan’s Chili is easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Once your pot of chili has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating it, always do so slowly on medium heat to ensure all the flavors are preserved. I usually add a little bit of water to bring back the liquid consistency and avoid overcooking.
Another great way to enjoy the leftover chili is to freeze it. Just divide it into smaller portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags and store them in your freezer for up to three months. You can reheat it directly from frozen by adding some water and gently heating.
If you want to get creative, try using Nan’s Chili Recipe as a topping for hot dogs or nachos! It’s also perfect when served with rice or cornbread for a hearty main meal.
I always feel like a hero knowing that I have some delicious chili ready in my fridge or freezer waiting for me after a long day at work. Trust me, this recipe is worth making extra – once you taste Nan’s Chili, you’ll want to eat it every day!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Nan’s chili recipe, let’s talk about some tips and tricks to make sure you end up with a delicious bowl of chili every time.
First and foremost, make sure to brown the ground beef well. This will not only give your chili a better texture but also enhance its flavor. Don’t rush this step as it is integral to the taste of the chili.
Another key tip is to use a slow cooker if possible. It helps all the flavors meld perfectly and creates that rich and hearty stew-like consistency that chili is known for. Slow cookers are also great for busy home cooks since they allow you to set it and forget it.
While you may be tempted to add more spices than what the recipe calls for, start with the recommended amounts first. It’s easier to add more spices later after tasting than having to dilute them if you realize you’ve added too much.
When adding beans, make sure you rinse them thoroughly under cold water and drain them before adding them to the dish. This will help get rid of any unnecessary canned-bean residue resulting in tastier beans in your chili.
Finally, don’t forget the toppings! Toppings like sour cream or cheese can balance out any heat level from the peppers, while fresh parsley or cilantro gives off a freshness and adds a pop of color. And when it comes to serving, Nan is known for crumbling cornbread on top of her famous chili.
With these tips tucked away, you’re now ready for some delicious homemade chili that would make even Nan proud!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Nan’s Chili Recipe is more than just an ordinary recipe – it’s a masterpiece that can only be passed down through generations. A delicious, hearty chili that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. With the perfect combination of spices and the addition of red kidney beans, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with its versatility and adaptability, it can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences.
So why not give Nan’s Chili Recipe a try? Whether you are cooking for your family or feeding a large crowd, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Get ready to impress your guests with this scrumptious dish that has been passed down through generations. So fire up your stove, grab your ingredients and start cooking – trust me; you won’t regret it.
Nan’s Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 1 tablespoon instant minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red cayenne pepper
- 1/3 cup chili powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
Instructions
- Brown ground beef.
- Add tomato sauce, tomatoes and water.
- Stir in the onion, garlic and seasonings.
- Add beans and simmer 30- 45 minutes.
- Serve with saltine crackers to crush into the chili.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.