How To Make Low Calorie Chili

Ingredients

Chili is a popular and flavorful dish that's easy to make and can be served in a variety of ways. The ingredients for chili vary from region to region, but typically include some combination of meat, beans, vegetables and spices. Traditional chili recipes are often high in fat and calories, but it is possible to make a healthier version that is still full of flavor. To make a low-calorie chili, start with lean ground beef or turkey and add a variety of vegetables and spices. Here is a list of ingredients you'll need to make a delicious and healthy chili dish.

1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
1 onion, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Optional Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, jalapenos, etc.

Instructions

To make this low-calorie chili, start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until it is no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Next, add the onion, red pepper, jalapeno pepper and garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes. Once the vegetables have softened, add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper and salt and stir to combine. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans and red kidney beans and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the chili has simmered for 30 minutes, it is ready to serve. Serve the low-calorie chili with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, jalapenos, etc. This chili can be served over rice, pasta, potatoes or even just in a bowl by itself. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

For an extra flavor boost, try adding 1/2 cup of your favorite beer to the chili while it is simmering. You can also add other vegetables to the chili, such as zucchini, squash, corn, etc. If you'd like to make the chili spicier, add additional jalapeno pepper or cayenne pepper. To make the chili less spicy, omit the jalapeno pepper and reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.

Storage & Freezing

This low-calorie chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze the chili, let it cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. The chili can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat the chili, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Chili is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. To make a low-calorie version, start with lean ground beef or turkey and add a variety of vegetables and spices. The chili can be served over rice, pasta, potatoes or just in a bowl by itself. Add your favorite toppings for a flavor boost, and store leftover chili in the refrigerator or freezer for an easy meal later on. Try making this low-calorie chili today!