Game Day Chili
Chili Recipe
I realize, everyone and their DOG has a chili recipe. But, I’m sharing my take on a game day favorite! I use pureed jalepenos for a little extra kick, but if you’re not a fan of spicy, you can leave that out. I make A LOT of chili because it freezes well and can be eaten for lunches later or in other applications! Look at the end of the blog entry for leftover ideas!
Ingredients (Makes 10 quarts - can be divided for your needs)
3 lbs. coarsely ground beef
3 cans chili beans with gravy
3 cans dark red kidney beans
3 cans light red kidney beans
4 cans crushed tomatoes
1 jar pickled jalapenos
1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves crushed garlic
2 Tbsp. paprika
5 tsp. seasoning salt
3 tsp. onion powder
3 tsp. garlic powder
3 tsp. ground cayenne pepper
3 tsp. seasoned pepper
1 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
Sour cream & shredded cheddar cheese (optional - for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Brown coarsely ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Do not over chop as you want to maintain the integrity of the coarsely ground beef. Drain fat once cooked. *Laurie’s Shopping Tip: I use coarsely ground beef because it is chunkier and heartier than regular ground beef. If you cannot find it in the grocery store, you can purchase a 3 lb. beef roast at the butcher counter and ask them to coarsely grind it for you!
Step 2: While beef is browning, puree the jar of jalapeños (liquid and peppers) in a food processor until finely pureed.
Step 3: In a large, stock pot, add all ingredients and bring to a low simmer. Simmer for at least 45 minutes so that all flavors infuse and stir often so the bottom does not scorch.
Step 4: Serve hot and garish with sour cream and cheese if desired.
*Laurie’s Cooking Tip: If you don’t want to purchase, or don’t have all of the spices (paprika, seasoning salt, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cayenne pepper, seasoned pepper, dried thyme and dried oregano), Lawry’s makes a good chili seasoning mix you can purchase at most grocery stores. Use 1 packet for each pound of ground beef.
*Laurie’s Leftover Chili Meal Ideas: Though this chili is delicious by itself, I like to make my own chili mac with leftover, frozen chili. Chef Boyardee has NOTHIN’ on this! LOL! Mix chili with a cooked pasta of your choice and add American cheese and salt and pepper to taste. I serve mine with a nice side salad for a quick, easy meal!
You can also make chili nachos with your leftovers! Top tortilla chips with chili and garnish with your choice of toppings (cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, black olives or additional jalapeño peppers).
