Brenda Gantt chili recipe – Bex’s Kitchen

Last Updated on January 16, 2024

Are you looking for a delicious and easy chili recipe that everyone will love? Look no further than Brenda Gantt’s chili recipe! This classic chili recipe has been around for generations and is sure to become a family favorite. 

It’s simple to make and packed full of the flavors you love. Keep reading to learn more about this delicious chili recipe and see why it’s a must-try!

What is Brenda Gantt Chili? 

Brenda Gantt has earned the affectionate title of “social media sweetheart” and the adoration of many as everyone’s favorite Southern grandmother. Her delightful and charming persona captured the public’s attention when she shared her cooking video online. 

Almost instantly, she rose to fame and is now recognized as a beloved personality worldwide.One of her most popular items is Brenda Gantt’s chili recipe which is a classic chili dish that has been passed down for generations. 

It is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. It is made with ground beef, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a variety of spices. The end result is a savory and satisfying chili that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love this Brenda Gantt Chili?

There are so many reasons to love this chili recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients. Second, it’s packed full of flavor from the combination of seasonings and spices. 

Third, it’s a great meal to make ahead of time and can easily be reheated for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Finally, it’s a great way to get your family to enjoy their vegetables with the addition of onions, bell peppers, and garlic.

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The Ingredients

This Brenda Gantt chili recipe is made with a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 Tablespoons of premium cooking oil, chosen for its delicate flavor and high smoke point: The cooking oil is used to sauté the onions and garlic, providing a neutral base for the ingredients. The chosen oil has a delicate flavor and a high smoke point, ensuring it withstands the heat of cooking without imparting unwanted tastes.
• 2 Large onions, finely chopped for a savory and aromatic base: Finely chopped onions serve as a savory and aromatic base for the chili. When sautéed, they release sweetness and depth, contributing to the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 6 Garlic cloves, artfully crushed to release their pungent aroma: Crushed garlic cloves add a pungent aroma and robust flavor to the chili. Crushing the garlic helps release its essential oils, intensifying the overall taste.
• 4 Pounds of coarsely ground beef (85% lean), selected for its perfect balance of meatiness: Coarsely ground beef with an 85% lean ratio is chosen for its meatiness and flavor. It provides a hearty texture to the chili while maintaining a good balance of fat for richness.
• 4 16-oz. Cans of whole tomatoes, undrained and coarsely chopped, for a burst of juicy goodness: Whole tomatoes, coarsely chopped, contribute a burst of juicy goodness to the chili. Their natural sweetness and acidity enhance the overall flavor and texture.
• 2 16-oz. Cans of pinto beans, thoroughly drained and rinsed, adding a hearty texture: Pinto beans, drained and rinsed, add a hearty texture to the chili. They bring protein and fiber while complementing the meatiness of the beef.
• 2 6-oz. Cans of premium tomato paste, for a concentrated tomato richness: Tomato paste adds a concentrated tomato richness, deepening the flavor and providing a thickening element to the chili.
• 4 Tablespoons of top-notch chili powder, enhancing the depth and complexity of flavors: Chili powder is a key spice that enhances the depth and complexity of flavors in the chili. It typically contains a blend of ground chilies, cumin, garlic, and other spices.
• 1 Teaspoon of zesty vinegar, for a tangy note that brightens the dish: Zesty vinegar adds a tangy note that brightens the overall flavor of the chili. It provides balance by cutting through the richness of the meat and tomatoes.
• 1.5 Teaspoons of natural sugar, adding a subtle sweetness to balance the acidity: Natural sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity from the tomatoes. It helps round out the flavors and reduces tartness.
• 2 Teaspoons of sea salt, for a perfect seasoning: Sea salt is used to season the chili, enhancing the overall taste and ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
• 1 Teaspoon of ground cumin, for a warm and earthy undertone: Ground cumin contributes a warm and earthy undertone to the chili, adding depth and complexity to the spice profile.
• 4 Whole cloves, carefully chosen for their aromatic essence: Whole cloves impart an aromatic essence to the chili, contributing a subtle and warm flavor.
• 2 Small bay leaves, for a hint of herbal freshness: Bay leaves add a hint of herbal freshness to the chili, infusing a subtle background note to the dish.
• 1/4 Teaspoon of ground red pepper (if desired), for those who enjoy a spicy kick: Ground red pepper is an optional ingredient for those who enjoy a spicy kick. It adds heat and intensifies the overall spiciness of the chili.

Step by Step Instructions

Making this Brenda Gantt chili recipe is a breeze. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat premium cooking oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and crushed garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and emit a fragrant aroma.

Step 2: Brown Ground Beef

Add coarsely ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Ensure thorough browning, cooking the beef evenly.

Step 3: Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in undrained and coarsely chopped whole tomatoes, drained and rinsed pinto beans, and tomato paste. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Add chili powder, ground cumin, sea salt, whole cloves, and bay leaves for a robust flavor profile. If you desire extra heat, include ground red pepper to spice things up.

Step 5: Enhance Flavors

Pour in zesty vinegar and add natural sugar to balance the acidity. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to incorporate and enhance the overall flavors.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the chili to simmer, uncovered, for at least 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, chili powder, or other spices according to your preference.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Once the chili reaches your desired consistency and flavor, remove the bay leaves and whole cloves. Serve the chili hot in bowls, indulging in its hearty and flavorful goodness.

Step 9 (Optional): Garnish

Garnish the chili with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

This Brenda Gantt chili recipe makes 8 servings and each serving has the following nutritional information:

Calories: 340
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 24g

How to Store Brenda Gantt Chili?

This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Variations

This chili recipe can be easily customized to your taste. Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Add additional vegetables such as celery, zucchini, or mushrooms.

• Substitute ground turkey for the ground beef.

• Add 1 can of black beans or kidney beans for extra protein.

• Top with crushed tortilla chips or Fritos for a crunchy topping.

• Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.

• Top with diced avocado, cilantro, or fresh lime juice for a flavorful garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

A. Yes, this chili can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Q. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A. Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if desired.

Q. Can I freeze this chili? 

A. Yes, this chili freezes well. Place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q. How do I thicken this chili? 

A. If the chili is too thin, simply simmer it for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Q. What are some topping ideas for this chili?

A. Some topping ideas include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, diced onion, crushed tortilla chips, Fritos, diced jalapeños, diced avocado, cilantro, or fresh lime juice.

Q. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

A. Yes, this chili is kid-friendly. If you have picky eaters, you can omit the cayenne pepper and/or adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt to your taste.

Q. Is this a healthy chili recipe?

A. Yes, this chili is a healthy option. It is packed full of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.

Conclusion

Brenda Gantt’s chili recipe is a classic for a reason! It is simple to make, packed full of flavor, and can be easily customized to your taste. 

Plus, it’s a great way to get your family to enjoy their vegetables. Give it a try and you’re sure to make it again and again!

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