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–+ servings
Southern Soul Chili

Southern Soul Chili: Hearty Comfort Perfect for Cozy Nights

This Southern Soul Chili is packed with bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and customizable spice levels, making it the perfect comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Soups
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 pound Ground Beef substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
  • 1 pound Hot Sausage an all-beef or pork sausage can also be used
  • 3 tablespoons Chili Powder adjust quantity for desired heat level
  • 1 large Poblano Pepper can substitute with jalapeño or bell pepper
  • 2 stalks Celery can be replaced with carrots or bell peppers
  • 1 large Onion shallots can provide a sweeter taste
  • 4 cloves Garlic use fresh minced garlic for best results
For the Sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt sea salt or table salt works as an alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Pepper adjust based on taste preference
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste essential for consistency
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes fresh tomatoes can be used for a fresher taste
  • 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce use your favorite brand or homemade version
  • 1/4 cup Spicy BBQ Sauce adjust amount to desired flavor intensity
  • 1 cup Lager Beer replace with beef stock for non-alcoholic option
  • 1 cup Beef Stock chicken stock can offer a lighter flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce soy sauce is a good substitute
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar red wine vinegar serves as an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Honey or Sugar adjust the amount based on preference
For Added Heartiness
  • 1 can Dark Red Kidney Beans can be replaced with pinto or black beans
  • 1 can Black Beans navy beans are another optional substitute

Equipment

  • large pot
  • cast iron skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Southern Soul Chili
  1. In a large pot or cast iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and hot sausage. Brown the meats for about 8–10 minutes until they are nicely caramelized and no longer pink.
  2. Add diced onion, chopped celery stalks, and diced poblano pepper to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium, stir in chili powder, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly and let it cook for 15 minutes.
  4. Pour in lager beer and beef stock. Add Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Mix well to combine.
  5. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 1.5 hours, stirring every 20 minutes.
  6. After 1.5 hours, stir in kidney beans and black beans. Cook for an additional 30 minutes over low heat, stirring regularly.
  7. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings if necessary. Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve garnished with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 1100mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Taste as you go to adjust seasonings, and consider making a double batch to freeze portions for easy future meals.

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