The thirty-sixth president came from the Texas Hill Country.
Family or White House tradition
The Pedernales River chili tradition is closely associated with Johnson’s household. Our bean-free beef chili follows that Texas connection, simmered until the meat and sauce come together.
The president & the table
Johnson’s food story is strongly tied to the Texas ranch. LBJ Library accounts describe substantial breakfasts and Southern dishes, while the Pedernales River chili tradition remains closely associated with his household. These were foods that could feed guests generously without a formal dining room.
Behind this story
LBJ Library food and recipe collections; Pedernales River chili tradition.
APRON ON. HISTORY CAN WAIT.
Make it at home.
Our home adaptation · Serves 6 · Not yet kitchen-tested
What you’ll need
Let’s make it
Brown seasoned beef in oil in a heavy pot in batches. Set aside. Soften onion in the same pot for 5 minutes.
Add garlic, spices and tomato paste for 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes and stock, scraping the base.
Return beef. Cover and simmer gently for 1½–2 hours until very tender, adding water if necessary.
Uncover to thicken if needed. Taste for salt and heat. Serve with cornbread or rice.
About this home version
A modern home recipe with practical ingredients and measured quantities.
Metric and US measures are approximate equivalents. For baking, use weights when you can.
