Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that comes straight from the heart of Texas and the White House kitchen! This isn't just any chili recipe - this is President Lyndon B. Johnson's personal chili con carne, a dish that warmed the bellies of politicians and guests during his presidency. Imagine savoring a hearty, bold chili that carries the same robust flavor and character as LBJ himself - a true taste of American history that will transport your taste buds to the Lone Star State with every single bite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the browned meat and sauté until the onions become translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle the chili powder over the meat mixture, stirring to coat the beef and onions evenly with the spice.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the bottom of the pot and release any browned bits stuck to the surface.
- Add the drained kidney beans and diced tomatoes to the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check the consistency periodically, adding a little more beef broth if the chili becomes too thick.
- Taste and adjust seasonings one final time before serving hot.
- Optional: Serve with traditional accompaniments like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or cornbread.
Tips
- Use high-quality ground beef with a bit of fat content for maximum flavor and richness.
- Don't rush the browning process - take time to develop deep, caramelized flavors in the meat.
- Toast your chili powder briefly before adding to enhance its aromatic qualities.
- Low and slow is the secret to tender, well-developed chili - resist the urge to crank up the heat.
- Let the chili rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
- For an authentic touch, serve in classic diner-style bowls just like they might have done in the White House!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
