Basic Spicy Chili Recipe

Spice up your life with this vibrant and flavorful vegetarian chili! Packed with beans, zesty spices, and a customizable kick of heat, this recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a chilly evening. Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this the perfect weeknight dinner. Top with your favorite sour cream and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 410.6 kcal
Protein 56g
Rating Be the first
Basic Spicy Chili 262

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Basic Spicy Chili

  • Ground Beef
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 (48-ounce) can tomato juice
  • Whole Tomatoes
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1-3 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • Water, as needed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Sour cream (optional)
  • Shredded cheese (optional)
  • Chopped cilantro (optional)

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How to Make Basic Spicy Chili

  1. Chop 1 large onion and sauté in a large skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add 2 (15-ounce) cans of kidney beans (drained and rinsed), 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, 1 (48-ounce) can of tomato juice, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to a large pot.
  3. Stir in 1-3 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce (adjust to your desired spice level).
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  5. Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda (this helps to deepen the flavor).
  6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, topped with your favorite sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro (optional).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

47 g

Sugar

67g

Fat

29g

Carbs

13g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Basic Spicy Chili?

Basic Spicy Chili takes about 60 minutes from start to finish — roughly 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Basic Spicy Chili?

Basic Spicy Chili has approximately 410.6 calories per serving, with about 56 g protein, 13 g carbohydrates and 24 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Basic Spicy Chili?

The key ingredients for Basic Spicy Chili are Ground Beef, Onions, Tomato Juice, Whole Tomatoes, Kidney Beans, Chili Powder. See the full list with measurements above.

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