Are you following a keto diet and wondering if you can still enjoy a hearty bowl of chili? Look no further! We’ve got the perfect recipe that is not only low in carbs but also packed with bold flavors that will have your taste buds singing. Say goodbye to traditional chili with beans and hello to a keto-friendly version that will satisfy your cravings.
The Keto Chili Experience
Chili is a classic comfort food that warms the soul with its delicious flavors. However, traditional chili recipes often contain beans and added sugars, making them off-limits for those on a keto diet. But worry not, because we’ve created a chili recipe that eliminates the beans and any added sugars, making it perfectly keto-friendly.
Keto Bean Substitutes for Chili
If you’re worried about missing the texture and substance that beans provide in chili, fear not! There are plenty of keto-friendly bean substitutes that will give you that same satisfaction. Try using cauliflower florets, mushrooms, eggplant, diced avocado, or even green beans for a low-carb alternative.
The Perfect Ingredients
To make our keto chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground beef: Opt for leaner varieties like 85/15 or leaner.
- Onion and green pepper: These veggies add flavor without adding many carbs.
- Diced tomatoes: They help give our chili that chunky texture.
- Tomato sauce: Make sure to choose a sauce without added sugars.
- Seasonings: We recommend chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for that perfect blend of flavors.
- Beef broth: This adds even more depth of flavor and helps with the consistency of the chili.
- Cheese and sour cream (optional toppings): We highly recommend adding these for extra creaminess and flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Making our keto chili is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps:
- In a large pot, cook the ground beef with chopped onions and green pepper. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the meat mixture with the recommended seasonings and mix everything together.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and stir everything together.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve in small bowls and top with your favorite keto-friendly chili toppings.
Thickening Your Chili
If you prefer a thicker chili, we’ve got you covered. There are two simple ways to achieve a thicker consistency:
- Boil the chili with the lid off to allow excess liquid to evaporate, naturally thickening the chili.
- Create a slurry using xanthan gum and water. Mix equal parts water and xanthan gum in a small bowl, then stir the slurry into the chili before it comes to a boil. The slurry will help thicken the chili as it cooks.
Tips and Variations
For some exciting variations, try these suggestions:
- Top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or even Greek yogurt for added flavor and creaminess.
- Add jalapenos or other hot peppers if you like a spicier kick.
- Substitute beef for ground turkey or chicken for a different twist.
- Experiment by adding keto-friendly veggies like mushrooms or green beans to the chili as it cooks.
Storage and Reheating
Our keto chili stores well and actually tastes even better the next day. To store your leftover chili, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it for up to 4 months for a quick and easy meal in the future.
Perfect Pairings
Keto chili pairs wonderfully with keto cornbread, keto tacos, coleslaw, or cauliflower rice. It also tastes fantastic on its own with your favorite keto-friendly toppings. This recipe is not only great for meal prep but can also be incorporated into your favorite keto Mexican dishes.
More Keto Comfort Recipes
If you’re a fan of easy-to-make keto dinner ideas, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:
- Keto Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Keto Chicken Parmesan Casserole
- Ninja Foodi Pot Roast (Pressure Cooker Pot Roast)
- Easy Keto Stuffed Peppers (Mexican Style)
- Broccoli Cheese Casserole
- Best Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
So, who says you can’t enjoy chili on a keto diet? With our simple and flavorful recipe, you can savor the goodness of chili without worrying about the carbs. Give it a try, and you’ll discover a new keto-approved favorite. Don’t miss out on the deliciousness!