Description
A hearty and healthy Lean Low Calorie Beef Chili made with lean ground beef, an assortment of beans, and a rich blend of spices. This chili is slow-cooked for tenderness and depth of flavor, making it a satisfying meal that is lower in fat but full of robust taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Spices & Seasonings
- 3 tbsp chili powder (freshly ground preferred for more flavor)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (add more for extra heat)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1.5 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 3/4 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
Beans
- 15 oz pinto beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
- 15 oz red kidney beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
Meat and Liquids
- 2 lb ground beef (93/7 lean for lower fat)
- 29 oz tomato puree (or tomato paste for more concentrated flavor)
- 1 quart tomato juice
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Dice the onion, celery, and green bell pepper into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Drain and rinse both canned pinto beans and red kidney beans to reduce excess sodium and improve flavor.
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.
- Add Vegetables & Spices: Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the browned beef. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, ground black pepper, garlic powder, sugar, and kosher salt. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften and spices to become fragrant.
- Incorporate Beans and Liquids: Stir in the drained pinto and red kidney beans, tomato puree, and tomato juice. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors blend well.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer slowly for approximately 4 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to meld deeply.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust salt or spices if needed. Serve hot with your choice of toppings or side dishes.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use 93/7 lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the chili heart-healthy.
- Slow simmering enhances the flavor, so avoid rushing the cooking time.
- Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium content.
- Optional toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced onions.
