Are you ready for a taste of Texas history? This isn't just any chili; this is Lady Bird Johnson's chili recipe, a delicious and surprisingly easy dish that's been a family favorite for generations. Known for its hearty flavors and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a winner. Get ready to experience a taste of the Lone Star State!
Ingredients: A Simple Symphony of Flavors
This recipe relies on quality ingredients to deliver maximum flavor. Don't skimp on the spices – they're the key to authentic Texas chili!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and turkey for a healthier option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Journey
Follow these easy steps to recreate this classic Texas chili:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for a deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. A dollop of sour cream and some shredded cheddar cheese are always a good choice!
Cooking Tips for Chili Perfection
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. For a milder chili, omit it altogether.
- Bean variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. Black beans or a mix of beans would also be delicious.
- Slow cooker magic: This chili is also perfect for a slow cooker! Simply brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 (14-ounce) package of vegetarian crumbles for a hearty vegetarian chili.
Variations on a Classic
- White Chili: Omit the cayenne pepper and use only white beans (great northern or cannellini) for a creamy, milder chili.
- Beef and Bean Chili: Use a combination of ground beef and different types of beans for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chipotle powder for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This Lady Bird Johnson chili recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas all rolled into one delicious dish. Enjoy!