Old Mama's Fashioned Chili Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, undrained
• 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, undrained
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 2 green bell peppers, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 1 yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (1.25 ounce) package chili seasoning mix, or to taste
• 1 dash hot sauce, or to taste
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a skillet, cook and stir the ground beef over medium-high heat until it becomes crumbly and browned, about 5 to 10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
2. Transfer the drained ground beef into a large pot and add the black beans, kidney beans, stewed tomatoes, green bell peppers, yellow onion, minced garlic, and chili seasoning mix. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow the chili to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender and the chili is heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Season the chili with hot sauce, salt, and ground black pepper to taste, then stir to combine.

Recipe Tip

You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef or omit the meat entirely for a lighter version of this recipe.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	362
Total Fat	10g (13%)
Saturated Fat	4g (18%)
Cholesterol	35mg (12%)
Sodium	1313mg (57%)
Total Carbohydrate	47g (17%)
Dietary Fiber	16g (59%)
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	24g (47%)
Vitamin C	38mg (42%)
Calcium	121mg (9%)
Iron	6mg (34%)
Potassium	754mg (16%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

Chili, a dish closely associated with the American Southwest, has a long and storied history. Its origins can be traced back to the Spanish settlers in Texas, where they combined local beans, meat, and chili peppers to create a hearty and flavorful stew. However, "Old Mama's Fashioned Chili" has its own unique roots, grounded in the traditions of a loving home cook named Elizabeth, affectionately known as "Old Mama." Her recipe, passed down through generations, combines classic ingredients like ground beef, beans, and peppers with a simple, no-nonsense approach to chili-making. This recipe is often described as the epitome of comfort food, evoking warm memories of family dinners and community gatherings.

Regional Variations

Chili recipes vary significantly across different regions of the United States. While Texas chili is known for its meat-heavy, no-bean approach, and Cincinnati chili is famously served over spaghetti, "Old Mama's Fashioned Chili" reflects a more traditional American style. This version includes both black and kidney beans, which provide texture and balance to the dish, along with stewed tomatoes for added depth of flavor. The inclusion of green bell peppers and onions adds a fresh, aromatic quality, making this chili a beloved choice for family meals.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets "Old Mama's Fashioned Chili" apart from other chili recipes is its balance of flavors and simplicity. Unlike some chili recipes that lean heavily on spices like cumin or cinnamon, this chili focuses on the rich taste of the beans and meat, complemented by a straightforward chili seasoning mix. The use of both kidney and black beans is a defining feature of this recipe, giving it a heartier texture than some other varieties that use only one type of bean. Moreover, the dish is not too spicy, making it accessible to people of all taste preferences, while still allowing for customization with hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Where Its Typically Served

Old Mamas Fashioned Chili is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, and chilly evenings. It's a go-to dish for community events like potlucks or chili cook-offs, where its comforting taste and easy preparation make it a crowd favorite. Additionally, its often served as part of Halloween dinners or during colder months when a hearty, filling meal is needed. This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, crackers, or tortilla chips, making it a versatile dish for different occasions. Its not just for special events, thoughthis chili is perfect for a cozy night at home, shared with loved ones or enjoyed as leftovers the next day.

Fun Facts About Chili

1. Chili is often considered the state dish of Texas, where it has been an integral part of local cuisine for over a century. Some even argue that chili should never contain beans, a debate that continues to this day.

2. The annual Chili Cook-Off is a major event in many parts of the country, where chefs from all walks of life compete to create the best chili. Its not just about the flavorpresentation and originality also play a key role.

3. While chili may be a deeply American dish, versions of it can be found in many countries around the world, from the spicy "chili con carne" in Mexico to the less spicy versions found in parts of Europe. Each culture adds its unique twist, making chili a versatile and internationally appreciated dish.

4. The secret to great chili often lies in the simmering process. Many chefs suggest that letting the chili sit overnight improves the flavor, as the spices and ingredients meld together over time.

FAQ about Old Mama's Fashioned Chili Recipe

Comments