Smoky Beer Chili

20 minutes Prep Time
1 hour
15 minutes
Cook Time
6 Servings

This rich and hearty chili with a smoky twist is made with ground beef and Italian sausage, Red Gold Tomatoes, a touch of cocoa powder and a bottle of beer for depth.  The smoky flavors come from chipotle peppers and smoked paprika, creating a deeply flavorful chili perfect for game days or chilly evenings!   @heresyourbite   @thefeedfeed

Ingredients

  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1-2 jalapenos, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced, to taste
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 3-4 tablespoons Red Gold® Canned Tomato Paste 6 oz

  • 1 can beer 12 oz, lager or amber
  • 2 cans Red Gold® Canned Petite Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz

  • 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can kidney beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, or 1 small piece of dark chocolate
  • 1 cup beef broth, omit for thicker chili
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • sour cream, avocado, cheddar cheese, green onions, lime, jalapeno, chips, optional toppings

Instructions

Step one

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.

Step two

Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, jalapeno, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize.

Step three

Add in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano and pepper.  Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes to toast the spices. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. 

Step four

Clear a center in your pot. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage and season with salt. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes. Once the meat is browned, stir in the Red Gold Tomato Paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Step five

Pour in the beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 2 minutes.

Step six

Add the Red Gold Petite Diced Tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, chipotle peppers, Worcestershire sauce, and cocoa powder. Pour in the beef broth (if using), followed by a pinch of salt and stir to combine. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step seven

Cover and let it simmer for at least 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes. 

Step eight

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Just before serving, stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors.

Step nine

Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, jalapenos, green onion, lime juice and chips. Enjoy!