Step into presidential history with Lady Bird Johnson’s famous Pedernales River Chili, the authentic Texas recipe that graced White House state dinners and became one of the most requested recipes in American political history. This no-beans Texas chili con carne represents true Lone Star State tradition, with bold flavors that have been winning hearts for over 60 years. So popular was this recipe that Lady Bird had thousands of copies printed on official White House cards to satisfy the endless requests from admirers.
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The Story Behind Pedernales River Chili
This iconic chili recipe holds a special place in American culinary history. Named after the Pedernales River flowing through the Johnson family ranch in Texas, this chili was regularly served at the LBJ Ranch and the White House during Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency. The recipe originated from Zephyr Wright, the talented cook who worked for the Johnson family for decades and whose culinary skills significantly contributed to shaping presidential entertaining.
Lady Bird Johnson was so proud of this recipe that she made it available to anyone who requested it, often handing out printed recipe cards at White House events. This generous sharing of a family treasure speaks to the warm hospitality that defined the Johnson administration and Texas culture.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of Pedernales Chili lies in its simplicity and authentic Texas approach. Unlike many modern chili recipes, this version contains no beans, staying true to traditional Texas chili con carne style. The combination of quality beef, robust chili powder, and carefully balanced spices creates layers of flavor that develop beautifully during the hour-long simmer. Adding whole tomatoes provides just enough acidity to balance the rich meat and spices.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- Chili meat – Use ground or diced beef chuck for rich, tender texture and full flavor
- Yellow onion – Provides a sweet foundation and aromatic base for the chili
- Fresh garlic – Adds pungent depth that complements the chili spices
- Dried Mexican oregano – Offers earthy, citrusy notes distinct from Mediterranean oregano
- Ground cumin – Contributes a warm, nutty flavor essential to Southwestern cuisine
- Chili powder – Forms the backbone of flavor; use a quality blend for best results. I recommend McCormick chili powder
- Canned whole tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture and helps tenderize the meat
- Hot sauce – Provides heat and tangy complexity; Frank’s RedHot recommended
How to Make Pedernales Chili
- Sauté the meat, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cooking until lightly colored.
- Add the oregano, cumin, chili powder, tomatoes, hot sauce, and water. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Skim off fat while cooking. Add salt to taste.
Recipe Flexibility & Modern Adaptations
Heat Level Adjustments:
- Mild Version: Reduce hot sauce or use milder chili powder
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or additional hot sauce
- Extra Heat: Include chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky heat
Lady Bird Johnson’s Pedernales River Chili – No Beans
Ingredients
- 4 pounds chili meat (beef chuck, ground or cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 14.5 ounces canned whole tomatoes and their liquid
- 2-6 generous dashes liquid hot sauce (I recommend Frank's Red Hot Sauce)
Instructions
- Sauté the meat, onion, and garlic in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and cook until lightly colored.
- Add the oregano, cumin, chili powder, tomatoes, hot sauce, and 2 cups hot water.
- Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for about 1 hour. Skim off fat while cooking. Salt to taste.
Video
Nutrition
Can’t get enough chili? Try these recipes!
Hearty Soup and Stew Recipes
- Beef Stew with Tomato Soup
- Campbell’s Vegetable Beef Soup
- Cowboy Soup
- Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Easy Instant Pot Beef Stew
- Instant Pot Irish Stew
- Navy Bean Soup
- Olive Garden Tuscan Soup
- Pot Pie Soup
- Southwestern Chicken Soup
Be sure to check out more easy chili recipes and the best winter recipes here on CopyKat!
It was good. I will remake and drain off the fat. My husband loved it. No beans and all meat. Thanks!
I’m always looking for another Chili recipe we make allot of chili. This one was good!