Hawaiian-Style Chili

There’s something magical about the fusion of flavors in a bowl of Hawaiian-Style Chili. Inspired by the beloved Zippy’s Chili in Hawaii, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic chili recipe, perfect for jazzing up your summer hot dogs or serving as a hearty meal. Although chili is often associated with cooler weather, in California, it’s a summer staple, and with this recipe, you can bring a taste of Hawaii to your table any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian-Style Chili is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. It’s a wonderful balance of savory and sweet, thanks to the unique addition of pineapple chunks. The recipe is simple to prepare and uses ingredients that are easy to find. Plus, it’s a nostalgic dish for those who have fond memories of dining at Zippy’s in Hawaii, making it a perfect way to reminisce or introduce new flavors to your family and friends.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Dutch oven
• Mesh strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 6 onions, chopped
• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2 (16 ounce) cans stewed tomatoes, with juice
• 2 (15.5 ounce) cans kidney beans, with liquid
• 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (16 ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large Dutch oven over high heat until hot. Add the ground beef and cook until barely pink, stirring constantly to break into small pieces.
2. Stir in the onions and bell pepper, and cook until the meat has browned and the onions have softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour the meat into a large mesh strainer and press to expel excess fat.
4. Return the meat to the Dutch oven and add the stewed tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and pineapple chunks. Season with chili powder and salt.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the chili reaches your desired consistency.

Tips for Success

• For the best flavor, choose ripe and juicy tomatoes and fresh bell peppers.
• Adjust the chili powder to your taste preference if you prefer it spicier or milder.
• Make sure to drain the pineapple chunks well to prevent the chili from becoming too sweet.

Additional Tips or Variations

Consider adding a dash of soy sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor. You can also swap the kidney beans for black beans if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein or extra beans.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 8g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this chili in advance? Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well for up to three months.

How can I thicken the chili? If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

Is this chili spicy? The spiciness of this chili is moderate, but you can adjust it by adding more or less chili powder.

Conclusion

Give this Hawaiian-Style Chili a try and bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will surely become a favorite. We’d love to hear how your version turned out, so don’t hesitate to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below!