Adding baking soda helps cut the acidity in the tomatoes.
STEP SEVEN: Remove from heat and you’re ready to serve.
You can use salt and black pepper to taste if you’d like.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS FOR THIS CHILI RECIPE
MY CHILI IS TOO THIN.
Solution: If your chili is more soup-like than you’d prefer, you can thicken it. One way is to simmer it uncovered for longer, allowing excess liquid to evaporate.
Alternatively, you can mix in a small amount of cornstarch or flour dissolved in water. Add this mixture gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
MY CHILI IS TOO THICK.
Solution: If the chili is too thick, simply stir in a bit more water or broth until it reaches your preferred texture. Do this gradually to avoid making it too thin.
MY CHILI ISN’T SPICY ENOUGH FOR MY TASTE.
Solution: If the chili lacks the heat you’re looking for, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced fresh jalapenos.
Be cautious and add in small increments, as it’s easier to increase the heat than to reduce it.
MY CHILI IS TOO SPICY!
Solution: If you’ve gone overboard on the spice, you can balance it by adding more of the base ingredients like tomato sauce or broth.
Dairy products like sour cream or shredded cheese served on top can also help to tame the heat.
THE FLAVORS ARE TOO FLAT IN MY CHILI.
Solution: Enhance a bland chili by adjusting the salt or adding a bit more of the spices like cumin or garlic powder.
A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors.
THE CHILI HAS TOO MUCH ACIDITY.
Solution: If your chili has too much of a tomato-based acidity, try balancing it with a little brown sugar or honey. This can round out the flavors without making the chili sweet.
MY CHILI IS TOO CRUNCHY.
Solution: If the meat is not as tender as you’d like, let the chili simmer longer. Low and slow cooking helps break down tough meat fibers.
Similar to the meat, if the vegetables aren’t cooked through, continue to simmer the chili until they reach the desired softness.
WAYS TO SERVE THIS RECIPE FOR CHILI
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of heartwarming, old-fashioned chili to satisfy comfort food cravings. But the beauty of this dish goes beyond its standalone deliciousness.
Chili is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic centerpiece for a variety of meals. Let’s explore some delightful ways to serve this cozy classic, enhancing its flavors and transforming it into different meal types.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just spicing up your weekly meal routine, these serving suggestions are sure to inspire.
Classic Bowl: Start simple. Serve your chili in a deep bowl, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
This traditional way lets the rich flavors of the chili shine, complemented by the creaminess of the sour cream and the sharpness of the cheese.
Chili and Cornbread: For a heartier meal, pair your chili with a side of warm, buttery homemade cornbread. The sweetness and soft texture of the cornbread provide a lovely contrast to the savory, spiced chili. It’s a classic combination that never fails to please.
You could also serve with mouthwatering beer bread, cheese biscuits, zucchini bread, tortilla chips, or crackers.
Loaded Baked Potato: Scoop your chili over a baked potato for a filling, nutritious meal. The fluffy potato serves as a mild base, allowing the chili to be the star. Top it with cheese, sour cream, and chives for an extra flavor kick.
Chili Mac & Cheese: Combine the chili with cooked macaroni and a generous amount of cheese for an indulgent chili mac & cheese. It’s a kid-friendly dish that’s also a hit with adults, offering a perfect balance of cheesy goodness and hearty chili.
Baked Chili Dogs: Elevate your hot dogs by smothering them in this chili. Add some shredded cheese and diced onions for a classic chili dog experience. It’s a fun, casual way to enjoy the chili, especially at gatherings or for a quick dinner.
Taco Salad Base: Use the chili as a base for a taco salad. Layer it with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and tortilla chips. The chili adds a robust flavor to the fresh salad components, creating a wholesome, flavorful meal.
Chili and Rice: One of my favorite ways to enjoy this chili is over a bed of steamed brown rice. The rice soaks up the chili flavors beautifully, making for a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve with a side of avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
Each of these serving suggestions is designed to complement and enhance the flavors of the chili, offering a range of options to suit different tastes and dining occasions.
Whether you stick to the classic bowl or get creative with chili mac and cheese, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this timeless dish!
Can’t get enough comforting, hearty chili?
HOW TO STORE THIS HOMEMADE CHILI RECIPE
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