Get ready to warm up with a hearty and flavorful dish that will become a new favorite in your kitchen. This Bourbon Chili recipe combines the rich and robust flavors of chili with a touch of smoky sweetness from bourbon. Perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!
**Bourbon Chili**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1/4 cup bourbon
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot with the cooked beef. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, bourbon, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. After 1 hour, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chili cook for an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered.
6. Serve the Bourbon Chili hot, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired. Cornbread or warm crusty bread makes a perfect accompaniment to this comforting dish.
Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this Bourbon Chili recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this dish will surely warm your soul. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite chili toppings or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Happy cooking!
