Game Day Chili

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small Mixing Bowl, combine all the spice blend ingredients — Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Oregano, Cayenne Pepper (if using), Kosher Salt, and Black Pepper. Mix well and set aside. Having the spices pre-measured means you can add them all at once and keep the cooking moving.

2. 2

   Heat a large Dutch Oven or heavy-bottomed Pot over medium-high heat. Add the Olive Oil. Once shimmering, add the diced Yellow Onion and Green Bell Pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and the onion turns translucent, about 5–6 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the minced Garlic and Jalapeno (if using) to the Pot. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add the Ground Beef to the pot. Break it up with a Wooden Spoon and cook until fully browned with no pink remaining, about 7–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons in the pot for flavor.

5. 5

   Add the Tomato Paste and the entire spice blend directly to the beef. Stir everything together and cook for 2 minutes, letting the tomato paste and spices toast slightly.

6. 6

   Pour in the Tomatoes, Tomatoes, and Beef Broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the Pot.

7. 7

   Add the drained and rinsed Kidney Beans and Black Beans. Stir to incorporate. Bring the chili to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.

8. 8

   Partially cover the Pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld. If it gets too thick, add a splash of Beef Broth or water.

9. 9

   Taste and adjust seasoning — add more Kosher Salt, Chili Powder, or a pinch of Cayenne Pepper if you want more heat. For a touch of brightness, a small squeeze of lime juice at the end works great.

10. 10

    Ladle the chili into bowls and set up a topping station with shredded Cheddar Cheese, Sour Cream, sliced Green Onions, Jalapeno slices, and Corn Tortilla Chips on the side. Let everyone customize their own Bowl.

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