varsity chili recipe

Today is another day for a fun copycat recipe! This time, I chose to make the Varsity Chili recipe, a cozy dish full of different flavors that tastes so delicious, especially when served on hot dogs, just like it’s famously done at the Varsity restaurant.

Varsity Chili is a classic, hearty chili you can enjoy at the Varsity restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia. You can also buy it canned, I believe the last time I saw it, the price was around $7.02. It’s full of flavor, with a nice tomato base and a tasty mix of beef and spices.

What I did was buy the canned version, taste it carefully, and then start creating my own version at home. I tried many different ingredients at first, it took me a whole day and more than 20 ingredients, But in the end, I felt like I got it just right.

I used high-quality ground beef, along with chopped onions and celery. I believe the ingredients that really make this chili special are the Worcestershire sauce and the type of tomato sauce you use. The better the quality, the closer you’ll get to the original Varsity Chili taste.

In the end, I really liked how mine turned out. Even though there’s a little difference in taste between the one I made and the original, I’m guessing the restaurant has some secret ingredients.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

How to Make varsity chili?

Step 1:

Put the ground beef in a big pan and cook it on medium heat. try to break it into tiny pieces as I did.

Step 2:

Add chopped onions, celery, and garlic to the beef. Stir it all and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 3:

I like to pour out the extra grease from the pan so the chili isn’t too oily.

Step 4:

Now, Add tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix it all up.

Step 5:

Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, pepper, salt, and cayenne if you want it spicy. Pour in water and stir everything again.

Step 6:

Turn the heat down low and let it cook slowly for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 7:

In a small bowl, mix flour and a little water to make a paste. Add it to the chili and stir. Cook 5 more minutes.

Step 8:

Taste it to see if it needs more seasoning. Then serve it and Enjoy.

KITCHEN EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon for mixing flour paste

WHAT TO SERVE WITH VARSITY CHILI?

When I make my Varsity Chili, I love pairing it with some sides and drinks, My favorite way to enjoy it is to pour over a juicy hot dog with a chilled Red Devil Drink on the side, believe me, this combo is unbeatable, Sometimes, I serve it with some homemade chips and creamy guacamole. It’s also super delicious with french fries, buttered cornbread, or even scooped on top of a baked potato.

FAQ

What is Varsity Chili made of?

Varsity Chili is made of ground beef, onions, celery, garlic, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and a mix of seasonings as I used such as chili powder and cumin.

How does Varsity Chili taste and look like?

I would say slightly tangy, and a little bit spicy.

Can I make this without onions or garlic?

Yes, if you don’t like onions or garlic, you can leave them out, but believe me you miss a lot of flavors.

Is this chili spicy?

It’s only a little spicy.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well.

Can I use this chili on fries or burgers?

It’s perfect for chili cheese fries or as a topping for burgers as well.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can use a little soy sauce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, just brown the meat and veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours.

Is this chili gluten-free?

No, because of the flour and possibly the Worcestershire sauce.

Can I use this chili in other recipes?

Yes, You can use it in taco salads, nachos, or even spoon it into a quesadilla.

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