This hearty vintage chili recipe by Mrs. Preston is a treasured glimpse into early to mid-20th century American home cooking. Featuring a straightforward mix of chili meat, suet, onion, garlic, and bold chili powder, this dish brings a comforting, rustic flavor that evokes memories of family dinners and slow-simmered goodness. The inclusion of suet reflects an old-school approach to depth of flavor and richness. It's a perfect recipe for those wanting an authentic, warming chili experience with a touch of nostalgia.
Ingredients
- ¾ lb suet (ground fine)
- 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 3 tbsp flour
Instructions
Step 1: Brown Suet
- Place suet in a pan and slightly brown it over medium heat.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook until tender and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook Meat
- Add chili meat to the pan. Stir and cook until browned.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
- Add 3 tbsp chili powder and 1 tbsp salt. Stir well. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Thicken Chili
- Add 3 tbsp flour. Stir thoroughly to combine and thicken the mixture. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes.
Tips
- Replace suet with ground beef fat or vegetable oil if suet is unavailable.
- Add canned tomatoes or beans for a heartier modern version.
- Spice it up with cayenne pepper or chipotle for a smoky twist.
- Top with shredded cheddar and green onions when serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 395kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 3gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 22gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 32mgSodium: 183mgPotassium: 118mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 892IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 1mg
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