Chili is a meal in itself since it contains beans, meat and a thick tomato base that has been infused with multiple spices. However, this mouthwatering southwestern soup is even better when served with tasty side dishes. This adds even more substance and appeal to an already tasty and filling meal. Try these delicious side dishes that go with chili, and make it a two or three course meal.
Serve Side Dishes of Steaming Cornbread Slathered in Butter
When looking for side dishes that go with chili, consider good old-fashioned corn bread. Bake it in a square or rectangular pan, a well-greased iron skillet or in a corncob shaped iron pan. For something a little different, stir in about one-quarter cup of drained whole kernel corn or a colorful fiesta mixture. This is one of the best side dishes with chili since it can be used to sop up every last drop.
A Cubed Cheese Platter will Go Great with Chili
Side dishes for chili do not have to consist of starch or grains. A cubed cheese platter is the perfect accompaniment to a good bowl of chili. Stock a tray with cubes of cheddar at various stages of aging, Monterrey jack, Colby, Muenster and brie. Surround the cubes of flavorful curd with a variety of crackers from the usual saltines to the smoked bacon variety. These are side dishes to please just about every palate, and they will go very well with chili.
Side Dishes of Tortilla Chips and Cheesy Dip
A variety of tortilla chips and dips are fantastic side dishes to go with chili. Consider white, blue and yellow corn tortilla chips in bags, or consider making your own. The article entitled Easy Homemade Restaurant Tortilla Chips provides simple step-by-step instructions. Homemade tortilla chips make great side dishes, especially with chili, and they are far better and fresher than store-bought chips. Serve them with thick cheddar cheese sauce, salsa or simply dip them in the chili instead of using crackers. They are side dishes that almost everyone will enjoy with a hot steaming bowl of chili.
A Raw Veggie Platter will Go Well with Chili
Side dishes that are healthy, fresh and crisp also go well with chili. Make up a platter of sliced green, red and yellow bell peppers, celery sticks and pepperoncinis. Serve these fresh and tasty veggies with a simple sour cream dip that consists of fresh dairy sour cream mixed with a little taco seasoning. It can be stirred into the chili or served with the fresh veggie side dishes for dipping.