Delight in the Warmth of Low-Carb No Bean Chili with Ground Beef
As the seasons change and the air gets crisper, comfort food becomes a staple on the dinner table. If you’re following a keto diet, you might think that chili is off the menu due to its high bean content. But fear not! Our Low-Carb No Bean Chili with Ground Beef is here to satisfy those hearty meal cravings without the unnecessary carbs. This recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and satisfying proteins, all while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. Let’s dive into a chili that will warm you up from the inside out, without compromising your dietary goals.
Chili is a beloved dish for many, and this version removes the beans, which are traditionally high in carbohydrates, to create a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative. Packed with ground beef and a medley of spices, it’s a meal that promises to deliver on taste and satisfaction. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, ensuring that even on your busiest days, a comforting meal is never out of reach.
Why This Low-Carb No Bean Chili Stands Out
Every spoonful of this Low-Carb No Bean Chili is a testament to the fact that you can enjoy indulgent flavors while sticking to a keto diet. This chili is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty experience that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. The absence of beans is hardly noticeable, as the ground beef takes center stage, providing a rich and fulfilling base that’s both high in protein and extremely low in carbs.
One of the key ingredients in this chili is the ground beef, which is not only delicious but also a fantastic source of high-quality protein and fats, essential for those on a keto diet. The combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste adds depth and a slight tanginess to the dish, while the beef broth enriches the overall flavor profile. The spices, including chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, are carefully selected to enhance the meaty taste without adding unnecessary carbs.
Each ingredient has been chosen for its ability to contribute to the overall harmony of the dish while keeping the carb count low. For example, the bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and crunch, contributing to your daily vegetable intake without overloading on carbs. The garlic and onion provide an aromatic base that’s fundamental in any good chili, infusing the dish with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Mastering the Method for Perfect Chili Every Time
Creating the perfect Low-Carb No Bean Chili is all about understanding the method and paying attention to the details that elevate the dish from good to great. Here are some chef-inspired tips to ensure your chili is a hit every time.
Brown the Ground Beef: Don’t rush this step. Properly browning the beef is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor. Make sure the pot is hot before adding the meat, and resist the urge to stir too often. Let the beef form a nice crust before breaking it apart. This will add a rich, caramelized flavor that’s the hallmark of a great chili.
Sauté the Vegetables: Take your time to cook the onions until they’re just translucent before adding the garlic and bell peppers. This ensures that each vegetable will release its maximum flavor potential, which will infuse into the beef and broth as the chili simmers.
Simmer to Perfection: Once all the ingredients are combined and seasoned, the real magic happens during the simmering process. A low and slow cook allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you can, let it simmer for a bit longer than an hour—just make sure to check the liquid levels and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Variation: Spicy Chipotle Chili
If you’re a fan of heat, add a smoky twist to your chili with some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Chipotle peppers are dried, smoked jalapeños that add a unique depth of flavor. Just a tablespoon of minced chipotle peppers and a bit of the adobo sauce can transform your chili into a fiery delight, perfect for those who love a little extra kick. Remember, a little goes a long way!
Variation: Creamy Keto Chili
For a creamier texture, try stirring in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream towards the end of the cooking process. This addition will not only add a luxurious richness to your chili but also some additional healthy fats, making it even more keto-friendly. Top with shredded cheese for an indulgent finish.
Variation: Garden Vegetable Keto Chili
To pack more veggies into your meal, consider adding low-carb vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. These vegetables will add volume and nutrients without significantly increasing the carb count. Dice them finely and add them during the last 20 minutes of simmering to retain some of their texture.
Substitutions for a Customized Keto Chili
While this chili is designed to be low-carb and keto-friendly, you might find yourself in need of substitutions. Here are some options that keep your chili within the keto guidelines.
Ground Turkey for Ground Beef: If you prefer poultry or are looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground beef. It’s still low in carbs and high in protein, making it a suitable alternative for this chili recipe.
Homemade Bone Broth: For an even richer flavor and added health benefits, use homemade bone broth instead of store-bought beef broth. Bone broth is known for its collagen content and can provide a more complex taste to your chili.
Alternative Sweeteners: If you like your chili with a hint of sweetness to balance the heat, consider using a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia instead of sugar. Just a pinch can enhance the other flavors without adding carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a chili that’s ready when you are.
Q: How can I thicken the chili without adding carbs?
A: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can reduce the broth slightly or let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, a small amount of xanthan gum can be used as a thickener.
Q: Is this chili freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, this chili freezes exceptionally well. Cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use canned tomatoes with added sugar?
A: For a keto-friendly chili, it’s best to use canned tomatoes with no added sugar. If you’re in a pinch, be sure to account for the extra carbs in your daily intake.
Q: What are some keto-friendly toppings I can add to my chili?
A: Top your chili with shredded cheese, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños. These toppings add flavor and healthy fats, making your chili even more satisfying.
Low-Carb No Bean Chili with Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef 907g
- 1 large onion, diced about 1 cup/150g
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced about 1/2 cup/75g
- 1 red bell pepper, diced about 1/2 cup/75g
- 1 can diced tomatoes, no sugar added 14.5 oz/411g
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste 30g
- 1 cup beef broth 240ml
- 2 tablespoons chili powder 16g
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin 4.2g
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 2g
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1g, optional for heat
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1g
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside, draining excess grease if necessary.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper, and sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If the chili is too thick, add additional beef broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.