Frequently Asked Questions
What is Colorful Southwest Chili Mix?
It is a layered jar recipe designed to look like sand art, making it a perfect gift that creates a hearty, low-cholesterol chili when cooked.
How do I layer the ingredients in the jar?
Start with the dried beans at the bottom and then add the spices one at a time around the edges to create visible, vibrant layers.
What types of beans are included in this mix?
The mix uses dried pinto beans, small dried white beans, small dried black beans, and dried kidney beans.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, the recipe allows for 2 pounds of either ground beef or ground turkey.
How many calories are in a serving of this chili?
Each serving contains approximately 292 calories.
How long does the chili need to simmer?
Once all ingredients are combined and brought to a boil, the chili should simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
What size pot is required for cooking?
You will need a large 12-quart pot to accommodate all the ingredients and liquid.
Is this recipe low in cholesterol?
Yes, this chili mix is specifically noted as being a low-cholesterol meal option.
What spices are used in the dry mix?
The mix includes taco seasoning, cumin, paprika, garlic granules, and chili powder.
Does the recipe contain sugar?
Yes, the cooking process requires adding 1/2 cup of brown sugar.
What liquid ingredients must be added at the time of cooking?
You will need 1/2 cup of cider vinegar, 49 ounces of tomato juice, and water to fill the pot.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 21 grams of protein per serving.
How much fiber does this chili provide?
This recipe provides 7 grams of fiber per serving.
What is the sodium content per serving?
The sodium content is 208mg per serving.
Can this be made as a vegetarian dish?
Yes, while the original recipe calls for meat, it is tagged as having a vegetarian option if the meat is substituted or omitted.
What kind of tomatoes are needed?
You will need four 15-ounce cans of diced tomatoes and one 8-ounce can of tomato paste.
How many grams of fat are in a serving?
There are 7 grams of fat per serving.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe calls for cider vinegar.
How many total ingredients are used in the recipe?
There are a total of 19 ingredients including the dry mix and fresh additions.
What is the purpose of adding white cornmeal?
White cornmeal is included in the spice layers to add texture and help thicken the chili.
Should the meat be cooked before adding it to the pot?
Yes, the ground beef or turkey should be browned in a separate skillet before being stirred into the pot.
Are there dried onions in the jar mix?
Yes, the dry mix contains 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes.
Do I need to add fresh onions later?
Yes, 1 medium diced fresh onion should be added when you are ready to cook the chili.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
The chili contains 46 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Why is the jar layering technique important?
Layering spices around the edges first ensures the colors show through the glass, creating the 'sand art' aesthetic for gifting.
How much garlic is in the mix?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of granulated garlic.
Is there any parsley in the recipe?
Yes, the mix includes 1/4 cup of dried parsley.
How much tomato juice is required?
The recipe requires 49 ounces of tomato juice.
When should I add salt and pepper?
Salt and pepper should be added to taste just before serving.
What is the first step in preparing the gift jar?
The first step is gathering all ingredients and ensuring you have a clean, dry jar for layering.