Southern Comfort (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 lb ground beef.
02 - 1 lb hot sausage.
03 - 3 tablespoons chili powder.
04 - ½ poblano pepper, chopped.
05 - 2 stalks celery, chopped.
06 - 1 medium onion, minced.
07 - 2 tablespoons garlic, minced.
08 - 2 teaspoons kosher salt.
09 - 1 teaspoon ground pepper.
10 - 4 oz tomato paste (canned or from tube).
11 - 1 (16 oz) can crushed tomatoes.
12 - 1 cup favorite BBQ sauce.
13 - ½ cup favorite hot/spicy BBQ sauce.
14 - 12 oz lager beer.
15 - 1 cup beef stock.
16 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce.
17 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
18 - 1 tablespoon honey or sugar.
19 - 2 (15 oz) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained.
20 - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained.

Instructions:

01 - In an extra-large stockpot or cast iron skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium heat.
02 - Add the chopped poblano pepper, celery, and onion to the pot, cooking until the meats are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
03 - Lower the heat to medium and stir in the chili powder, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and both BBQ sauces. Scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot, and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
04 - Add the lager beer, beef stock, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir to blend all ingredients well.
05 - Simmer the chili for about 1.5 hours, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to develop. If the chili becomes too thick, add water in ¼ cup increments.
06 - Add the kidney beans and black beans, and cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Adjust seasoning as needed.
07 - Serve hot with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, scallions, grated cheese, hot sauce, jalapeños, or hot cornbread.

Notes:

01 - This Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish with a rich blend of spices, ground meat, and beans.
02 - The addition of BBQ sauce and beer gives it a unique Southern twist, perfect for gatherings or comfort food cravings.
03 - Serve with classic chili toppings for an extra kick of flavor and texture.