Prepare to transform your ordinary chili night into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This isn't just another chili recipe - it's a bold, mouth-watering journey that combines the smoky richness of bacon, the depth of craft beer, and a tantalizing heat that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for game day, weekend gatherings, or when you're craving a seriously delicious comfort food that packs a flavor punch, this BZS Bacon Beer Sweet Heat Chili is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb bacon, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can beer
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp and the fat has rendered, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Add ground beef to the bacon grease and brown thoroughly, breaking the meat into small crumbles. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until no pink remains.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the beer, stirring to deglaze the bottom of the pot and release any browned bits. Allow the beer to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Return the crispy bacon pieces to the pot, mixing them into the chili.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for
- 5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and develop deep complexity.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne for desired heat level.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Choose your beer wisely - a darker beer like a stout or amber ale will add more depth to the chili's flavor profile.
- Let the chili simmer low and slow - this is crucial for developing rich, complex flavors and tenderizing the meat.
- For extra crispy bacon, cook it separately and add it just before serving to maintain its crunch.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper, or add it gradually to control spice level.
- Make this chili a day ahead - the flavors will continue to develop and taste even better the next day.
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor, and don't be afraid to adjust seasonings to your taste.
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce and concentrate the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
