Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili
This award-winning chili brings warmth and comfort with its rich blend of spices, savory meats, and hearty beans, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
Meats
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and tender, perfectly complementing the spices.
- 1 lb hot breakfast sausage Adds a delightful spice and richness.
Vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped Sweet and aromatic, providing a flavorful base.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Crisp and fresh, adding crunch and subtle flavor.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic Provides richness and depth of flavor.
Spices and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons chili powder The star of the show for warmth.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of earthiness.
Tomatoes and Sauce
- 4 oz tomato paste Thick, rich, packed with umami flavor.
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (16 oz) Juicy and tangy, provides a saucy base.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce Sweet and smoky for elevated flavor.
- 1/2 cup spicy BBQ sauce For an extra kick!
Liquids
- 12 oz lager beer Adds depth and complexity of flavors.
- 1 cup beef stock Ensures the chili is rich and hearty.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Tangy, savory addition.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Provides sweetness and acidity.
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar Enhances sweetness of tomatoes.
Beans
- 2 cans (15 oz each) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained Creamy and hearty for texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained Adds contrasting color and earthy flavor.
Optional Toppings
- shredded cheddar Enhances each bowl.
- sour cream Adds creaminess.
- scallions For freshness.
- jalapenos For extra heat.
- hot sauce Enhances spice.
- cornbread Perfect for dipping.
Instructions
Cooking the Meat
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy stockpot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and sausage, breaking apart with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes.
Adding Vegetables
- Add onion, celery, and poblano pepper. Stir frequently for 5-6 minutes until softened.
Combining Ingredients
- Stir in garlic, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper, cooking for about 45-60 seconds.
- Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, BBQ sauces, and mix well. Cook for 12-15 minutes.
Simmering
- Pour in lager beer, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a gentle simmer and partly cover, cooking for 1 1/2 hours.
Finalizing the Chili
- Stir in rinsed kidney beans and black beans, simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings.
Notes
To take your chili to the next level: cook it low and slow, use fresh garlic, and adjust the spice level as desired. Consider serving in rustic bowls topped with cheese and a side of crunchy cornbread.