Chili with Brown Rice and Spinach
This hearty and nutritious chili is perfect for a cozy meal. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients. Serve it with warm sweet cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe?
Quick and Easy: Whip up this chili in no time! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Budget-Friendly: With canned tomatoes and beans as the base, this recipe won’t break the bank.
Kid-Approved: Let the little ones customize their bowls with their favorite toppings.
Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a wholesome meal.
Versatile Toppings: Spinach, brown rice, cheese, and cilantro add flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
1 lb ground beef or pork
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet chili seasoning (or use homemade chili seasoning mix)
2 cups vegetable or beef broth
Optional Toppings:
Cooked brown rice
Chopped fresh cilantro
Croutons
Shredded cheese
Sour cream
Instructions
1. Cook the Chili:
In a large pot, cook the ground beef or pork over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
Stir in the chili seasoning packet (or homemade seasoning mix).
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
If using, stir in the chopped spinach and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Serve:
Spoon the chili into bowls and top with cooked brown rice, cilantro, croutons, shredded cheese, and sour cream as desired.
Seasoning the Chili
If you prefer a quicker and more convenient option, you can use a store-bought chili seasoning packet. However, making your own seasoning mix allows you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives. Here’s a simple homemade chili seasoning mix:
Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix:
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Mix all the spices together and use in place of the store-bought seasoning packet. This blend will add a rich and flavorful profile to your chili.
Tips & Tricks
Meal Prep: Make a big batch of chili and freeze portions for easy weeknight dinners.
Healthy Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork for a leaner option.
Kid-Friendly: Let the kids add their favorite toppings to their chili bowls.
Serve with Cornbread: For a complete meal, serve the chili with warm sweet cornbread on the side.
This version keeps the ingredients simple while enhancing the flavor with spices and fresh toppings. Enjoy your cozy meal! 😊
Whether you’re enjoying this chili on a chilly evening or as a comforting lunch, it’s a winner all around. Packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, this hearty dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Don’t forget to pair it with warm sweet cornbread for the ultimate cozy meal experience. Bon appétit!🌟 Discover More Flavorful Creations! 🌟
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