American chili con carne

American chili con carne, often just called 'chili,' is a hearty, spicy stew that originated in Texas. It typically features ground beef, chili peppers, tomatoes, and beans, though traditional Texas versions sometimes omit beans. The dish is a staple of American comfort food, known for its rich, warming flavors.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Chili con carne is generally high in protein from the beef and fiber from the beans, with a moderate to high fat content depending on the meat used. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) provides around 300-400 calories, along with key nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins from the tomatoes and peppers.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	280 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	20 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	6 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	900 mg
Potassium	600 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	1200 IU
Calcium	80 mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Zinc	5 mg
Magnesium	45 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, chili con carne is the official state dish of Texas and is the centerpiece of competitive 'chili cook-offs' across the U.S., where recipes are fiercely debated. Nutritionally, it's unique for combining complete proteins from meat and legumes, making it a satisfying, balanced meal in one pot.