Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

Award Winning Southern Soul Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty celebration of flavor, perfect for game days, tailgating, or cozy nights in. This chili combines ground beef and sausage with rich spices and beans, simmered to perfection. The unique blend of BBQ sauces gives it a delightful twist that sets it apart from other recipes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this ultimate comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of meats and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive gathering, this chili is sure to please.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Garnishes: Customize your chili with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe makes enough for 8 servings, making it ideal for parties or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Award Winning Southern Soul Chili, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Extra-large stockpot or cast iron skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Extra-large stockpot or cast iron skillet: Essential for browning meat and simmering the chili evenly.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb hot sausage
– 3 tablespoons chili powder
– 1/2 poblano pepper – chopped
– 2 stalks celery – chopped
– 1 medium onion – minced
– 2 tablespoons garlic – minced
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon ground pepper
– 4 oz tomato paste – canned or from tube
– 1 16 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup your favorite BBQ Sauce
– 1/2 cup your favorite Hot/Spicy BBQ sauce
– 12 oz lager Beer
– 1 cup beef stock
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 2 cans (15oz) dark red kidney beans (rinsed and drained)
– 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)

How to Make Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In an extra-large stockpot or cast iron skillet, brown ground beef and hot sausage.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped poblano pepper, celery, and onion. Cook until the meats are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Spices & Sauces

Lower heat to medium. Add chili powder, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and both types of BBQ sauces. Mix well, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring often.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Stir in lager beer, beef stock, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and either honey or sugar. Mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

Simmer for about 1.5 hours while stirring frequently. If the sauce becomes too thick, add water in increments of 1/4 cup.

Step 6: Add Beans

Finally, add the rinsed dark red kidney beans and black beans. Cook for another 30 minutes while stirring frequently. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm with garnishes such as sour cream, scallions, grated cheese, hot sauce, jalapeños, or some fresh cornbread on the side. Enjoy your delicious Award Winning Southern Soul Chili!

How to Serve Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

Serving Award Winning Southern Soul Chili is all about enhancing its rich, hearty flavors. This chili is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it perfect for any occasion.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Grated Cheese: Cheddar or pepper jack cheese melted on top provides a savory finish.
• Scallions: Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch that complements the chili perfectly.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent side that soaks up the chili’s flavors.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty baguette or sourdough can be used to scoop up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips can add texture and crunch while serving as a dipper.

Garnish Suggestions

• Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños add heat for those who prefer extra spice.
• Hot Sauce: Offer a selection of hot sauces for guests to customize their heat level.

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How to Perfect Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your Award Winning Southern Soul Chili, consider these simple tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Use fresh spices and herbs to enhance the chili’s depth of flavor.
• Slow Simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer for longer develops a richer taste; don’t rush it!
• Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef and sausage for a more savory base.
• Beer Selection: Opt for a lager that you enjoy drinking; this will enhance the overall flavor.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chili towards the end of cooking and adjust seasonings as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Award Winning Southern Soul Chili can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich chili flavor.
2. Rice: White or brown rice helps absorb the sauce, making each bite more filling.
3. Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains provide a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances out the heat with its cool texture.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies offer a healthy side that complements the chili well.
6. Nachos: Layered tortilla chips topped with cheese and jalapeños make for an indulgent side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Award Winning Southern Soul Chili can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using low-quality meat: Always choose good quality ground beef and sausage for the best flavor. Low-quality meat can result in a bland chili.
• Overcooking the beans: If you add the beans too early, they may become mushy. Wait until the chili is nearly done before adding them for the perfect texture.
• Skipping the simmering time: Allowing your chili to simmer lets all the flavors meld beautifully. Rushing this step will leave you with a less flavorful dish.
• Neglecting seasonings: Taste your chili as it cooks and adjust seasonings as needed. This ensures a balanced flavor profile that’s truly delicious.
• Not using enough liquid: Your chili needs moisture to cook properly. If it gets too thick, add water or broth gradually to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date made for easy tracking.

Reheating Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Award Winning Southern Soul Chili?

The spice level can vary based on the type of sausage and BBQ sauces you use. For milder chili, opt for sweet BBQ sauce and reduce or omit added hot sauce.

Can I make Award Winning Southern Soul Chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef and sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

How long does it take to make Award Winning Southern Soul Chili?

The total time is approximately 165 minutes, including prep and cooking time. The longer simmer enhances the flavors!

What can I serve with Award Winning Southern Soul Chili?

Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Toppings like sour cream and cheese enhance its appeal.

Can I customize my Award Winning Southern Soul Chili recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different beans, vegetables, or spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Award Winning Southern Soul Chili is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors perfect for any occasion. Its rich taste and comforting qualities make it ideal for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!