When it comes to a warm, hearty, and soul-satisfying dish, nothing beats a pot of Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili. Packed with bold flavors, this recipe combines the heat of chili, the smokiness of BBQ sauce, and the richness of beer and beef broth for a chili experience that’s unforgettable. I came across this incredible recipe on iwuvcooking.com, and I couldn’t wait to try it out and share it with you!
Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving comfort food with a kick, this chili is guaranteed to impress.
What Sets Southern Soul Chili Apart?
This isn’t your average chili—it’s a blend of Southern charm and smoky BBQ goodness. With a combination of ground beef, spicy sausage, and a rich medley of spices, this chili gets an extra layer of flavor from two types of BBQ sauce, beer, and Worcestershire sauce. Add tender beans and your favorite garnishes, and you’ve got yourself a bowl of chili that’s as hearty as it is delicious.
Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb hot sausage
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- ½ 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 tube)
- 1 (16 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- ½ 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 (15 oz) cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
In a large stockpot or cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. - Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped poblano pepper, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the meat is fully cooked. - Season and Mix:
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the chili powder, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and both BBQ sauces. Scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate any browned bits. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently. - Add Liquids:
Stir in the lager beer, beef stock, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Mix well and let the chili simmer over low heat for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. If the chili thickens too much, add water in ¼-cup increments to loosen the sauce. - Add Beans and Simmer:
Stir in the kidney beans and black beans. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as sour cream, scallions, grated cheese, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce. Serve with hot cornbread on the side for a complete Southern feast.
Tips for Perfect Chili
- Choose the Right Beer: A lager adds a crisp, subtle flavor, but you can experiment with darker beers for a richer taste.
- Let it Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the deeper the flavors will develop.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking by using more or less hot BBQ sauce and chili powder.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern Soul Chili is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors creates a chili that’s rich and complex. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or bring it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Pair it with a cold beer or sweet tea, and you’ve got the perfect Southern comfort food.
Let me know how you enjoyed this recipe! Don’t forget to visit iwuvcooking.com for more award-winning ideas to elevate your cooking.
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