This is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of tomatoes and the comfort of beans, all in a mild and kid-friendly spice blend. It’s a staple in many households, not just for its taste but also for its ease of preparation and versatility. Whether served with chips, on top of hot dogs, or as a standalone meal, this chili is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Its cultural significance lies in its ability to bring families together, often served at gatherings and events where warmth and comfort are key.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz.) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz.) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz.) white beans, drained
- 1 packet McCormick Chili Seasoning, mild
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili seasoning and cumin. Cook for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the kidney and white beans. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Top Tips
- Use Mild Seasoning: For a kid-friendly version, ensure the chili seasoning is mild to avoid any heat.
- Customize with Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado to let everyone personalize their bowl.
- Make it Interactive: Let kids help with simple steps like stirring or adding toppings to make the experience more fun.
- Freeze for Later: This chili freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.
- Experiment with Beans: Feel free to substitute different types of beans or add more for added texture and nutrition.
- Add Some Crunch: Serve with crunchy elements like baked tortilla chips or croutons for added texture.
Variations
- Turkey Twist: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Spicy Kick: For adults, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give it a spicy kick.
- Veggie Delight: Omit the meat and add more beans or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Slow Cooker Method: Transfer the chili to a slow cooker after browning the meat and simmering the onions, then cook on low for 6 hours.
- White Chili: Use white beans exclusively and add some diced chicken for a creamy white chili.
- Italian-Style: Add some Italian seasoning and diced bell peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Protein | 22g |
This chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The beans provide a good source of fiber and protein, while the tomatoes add vitamin C and lycopene. Ground beef contributes iron and additional protein. This dish is a great way to ensure a balanced meal that kids will love. For a healthier version, consider using leaner ground meats or adding more vegetables.
