"A robust and flavorful chili, packed with lean ground beef, two varieties of nutrient-rich beans, sweet corn, and savory diced tomatoes, all simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. Lightly garnished with reduced-fat cheddar and a dollop of lighter sour cream, finished with fresh cilantro for a vibrant, satisfying meal."
Why it's Healthy
This version of the chili is made healthier by utilizing lean ground beef, significantly reducing the saturated fat content while maintaining a satisfying protein base. We've also incorporated a greater proportion of high-fiber beans, which contribute to satiety and gut health. The addition of fresh garlic boosts flavor without extra fat. Crucially, the quantity of higher-fat toppings like shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream has been consciously reduced, offering just enough for flavor and texture without overloading on calories and saturated fats. This approach creates a nutritionally balanced meal rich in protein, fiber, and micronutrients.
Ingredients
Nutrition Facts
Detailed Breakdown
| Item | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Sugar | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 101.5g | 0.0g | 51.5g | 0.0g | 0.0g |
| Olive Oil | 0.0g | 0.0g | 15.0g | 0.0g | 0.0g |
| Garlic | 1.0g | 5.0g | 0.1g | 0.1g | 0.3g |
| Chili Powder | 1.8g | 7.5g | 2.3g | 1.2g | 4.2g |
| Cumin | 1.4g | 3.5g | 1.8g | 0.2g | 0.9g |
| Paprika | 0.7g | 2.8g | 0.7g | 0.5g | 1.8g |
| Salt | 0.0g | 0.0g | 0.0g | 0.0g | 0.0g |
| Black Pepper | 0.3g | 1.9g | 0.1g | 0.0g | 0.8g |
| Garlic Powder | 0.5g | 2.2g | 0.0g | 0.2g | 0.3g |
| Onion Powder | 0.3g | 2.3g | 0.0g | 0.9g | 0.3g |
| Oregano | 0.3g | 2.1g | 0.1g | 0.1g | 1.3g |
| Tomato Sauce | 4.0g | 28.0g | 0.8g | 16.0g | 4.0g |
| Diced Tomatoes | 3.6g | 16.0g | 0.8g | 12.0g | 4.0g |
| Kidney Beans | 36.0g | 84.0g | 2.0g | 1.2g | 28.0g |
| Black Beans | 35.6g | 94.8g | 2.0g | 1.2g | 28.0g |
| Corn Kernels | 3.8g | 28.5g | 1.5g | 4.5g | 3.8g |
| Cheddar Cheese | 15.0g | 0.8g | 19.8g | 0.3g | 0.0g |
| Sour Cream | 2.2g | 3.4g | 15.2g | 2.2g | 0.0g |
| Cilantro | 0.3g | 0.6g | 0.1g | 0.1g | 0.4g |
Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1.1 lb of lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Thoroughly drain any excess fat from the pot.
- 2
Reduce the heat to medium. Add 1 ½ tbsp of minced garlic to the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in 1 ½ tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, ½ tbsp paprika, ¾ tsp salt, 1 ⅛ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 ⅛ tsp onion powder, and ½ tbsp oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 4
Pour in 1 ⅔ cup of tomato sauce and stir well. Add the undrained 1 ⅔ cup diced tomatoes, the rinsed and drained 14.1 oz kidney beans, the rinsed and drained 14.1 oz black beans, and ⅔ cup of drained corn kernels to the pot. Stir all ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
- 5
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 30-45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 6
Ladle the hot chili into individual serving bowls. Garnish each serving with a light sprinkle of ⅓ cup shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of ⅓ cup sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of ⅛ cup fresh chopped cilantro.
