If you're looking for a tasty and satisfying snack, look no further than nachos with chili! Not only are they delicious, they're also relatively low in calories, with only 12 calories per serving.
But what exactly makes up a serving of nachos with chili, and what kind of nutritional information should you be aware of? Let's take a closer look.
In this article, we'll explore how to make nachos with chili, different toppings and cheese options, tips for making the best nachos, and even gluten-free and vegan options. Plus, we'll delve into the history of nachos and share a few tasty recipes to get you started.
A serving of nachos with chili typically includes tortilla chips, chili meat, shredded cheese, and any additional toppings you choose, such as diced tomatoes, onions, or jalapenos. One serving (about 10 chips) contains approximately: - 150-200 calories
- 10 grams of fat
- 15-20 grams of carbs
- 7-10 grams of protein
How to Make Nachos
To make nachos with chili, you'll need: - Tortilla chips
- Chili meat (homemade or store-bought)
- Shredded cheese
- Optional toppings (such as diced tomatoes, onions, or jalapenos) To assemble, simply layer the chips, meat, cheese, and toppings in a baking dish and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Toppings for Nachos
While chili and cheese are the mainstay toppings for nachos, there are plenty of other delicious options to consider. Here are a few ideas to get you started: - Diced tomatoes
- Diced onions
- Pickled jalapenos
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Black beans
- Shredded lettuce
- Cilantro Feel free to mix and match and get creative with your nacho toppings!
Different Kinds of Cheese for Nachos
While shredded cheddar cheese is the classic choice for nachos, there are plenty of other cheese options to consider. - Monterey Jack
- Colby
- Pepper Jack
- Queso blanco
- Queso fresco
- Blue cheese Experiment with different cheese blends until you find your perfect combo!
Tips for Making the Best Nachos
If you want to take your nacho game to the next level, here are a few tips to keep in mind: - Use high-quality ingredients
- Layer your toppings evenly
- Don't overdo it on the cheese
- Bake at a high temperature (400-450 degrees) for crispier chips
- Serve immediately With these tips in mind, you'll be making restaurant-quality nachos in no time!
Calories in Other Nacho Varieties
While nachos with chili are a relatively low-calorie option, other varieties can be much higher. Here are a few examples: - Loaded nachos with meat, cheese, beans, guacamole, and sour cream can contain over 1,000 calories per serving.
- Fast food nachos can contain up to 300 calories per serving.
- Vegetarian nachos with ingredients like quinoa, black beans, and avocados can be a healthier option at around 300-400 calories per serving. Be mindful of portion sizes and ingredients if you're trying to watch your calorie intake.
Gluten-free and Vegan Nacho Options
If you're looking for gluten-free or vegan nacho options, there are plenty of tasty choices available! Here are a few ideas: - Use gluten-free tortilla chips or make your own with corn tortillas.
- Swap out traditional meat for a vegan alternative like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or black beans.
- Use vegan shredded cheese or make your own cashew-based cheese sauce.
- Load up on veggies like roasted peppers, onions, and mushrooms. With a little creativity, you can enjoy delicious nachos no matter your dietary restrictions!
Ways to Serve Nachos
While nachos are a classic party snack, there are plenty of other occasions and ways to serve them. Here are a few ideas: - Game day or tailgating
- Movie night
- Nacho bar for a DIY meal
- Late night snack
- Brunch nachos with eggs and bacon No matter the occasion, nachos are always a hit!
History of Nachos
Nachos are said to have originated in Mexico in the 1940s, when a group of hungry U.S. servicemen arrived at a restaurant after hours. The chef, Ignacio "Nacho" Anaya, threw together a quick snack using tortilla chips, cheese, and jalapenos. The servicemen loved it, and thus, nachos were born! Over the years, nachos have become a staple snack food, and there are endless variations and toppings to choose from.
Nacho Recipes
Looking for some inspiration for your next nacho creation? Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started: - BBQ pulled pork nachos
- Buffalo chicken nachos
- Breakfast nachos with scrambled eggs and bacon
- Loaded vegan nachos with cashew cheese and black beans With so many delicious options, the only problem will be deciding which one to make first!
Life is too short to not enjoy nachos with chili.
FAQs About Nachos with Chili
1. How many servings does 12 calories of nachos with chili contain?
It's difficult to determine the serving size based on the calorie count alone. You may need to refer to the nutrition label or recipe for more information.
2. Is 12 calories a lot for nachos with chili?
No, 12 calories is a very low amount for nachos with chili. However, the portion size and additional toppings can greatly affect the overall calorie count.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of nachos with chili?
Nachos with chili can provide a good source of protein and fiber, depending on the ingredients used. However, they can also be high in sodium and unhealthy fats.
4. Can nachos with chili be a part of a balanced diet?
Yes, nachos with chili can be a part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and balanced out with other nutrient-dense foods.
5. Are there any healthier alternatives to the traditional nachos with chili?
Yes, you can try making nachos with healthier toppings, such as grilled chicken or veggies, using baked tortilla chips, and reducing the amount of cheese and sour cream used.