With cold weather in the forecast, I’m suddenly craving a big, bowl of chili. Why is it that when it gets cold outside , we get Chili on our minds? (Or maybe it’s just me?) That’s kind of ironic, we eat chili when it turns chilly? Chili is the perfect compliment to watching football on Sunday afternoons….or watching the snow fall.
Johnnies carries a pre-cooked ground beef product, something I’ve never even thought about buying before. But, it saves some time, and since the meat is pre-cooked, there is less mess and no excess fat to drain. (For those watching their fat or cholesterol intake, this beef contains no more than 20% fat.) Sold frozen, in 5 lb. bags, it’s perfect when cooking for large groups. I made a big pot of this Chili over the weekend and got rave reviews. (Even a vegetarian gave it a “thumbs up!)
This recipe does require a bit more cooking time than my previous recipes, and perhaps some additional cooking skills, but sometimes you have the time. You could probably toss everything together in a crock pot or slow cooker and let it cook on low all day.
Maybe you have your very own award winning, top secret recipe for Chili? Maybe not. This one has some unique ingredients that work surprisingly well together.
Chili
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Number of Servings: 8
1 and 1/2 – 2 lbs. of Johnnies pre-cooked ground beef
1 (14.5 oz) can peeled and diced tomatoes with juice
1 (12 oz.) can or bottle of beer
1 cup of strong brewed coffee
2 (6 oz.) cans tomato paste
1 (14 oz.) can beef broth
1/4 cup chili powder
1 Tablespoon ground cumin
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon each: oregano, cayenne pepper, salt
optional: 2 (15 oz.) cans kidney beans
Place 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot and place the pot over medium heat. cook and stir the onions and garlic until tender and/or translucent. Pour in the ground beef, tomatoes, beer, coffee, tomato paste and broth. Season with chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, oregano, cayenne and salt. (If adding beans, add at this time.)
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer for 2 hours.
Christmas is less than two weeks away!! If you’re still searching for that perfect present or need some things to fill their stockings, don’t forget that Johnnies has a large selection of chocolates and candies. Candy canes, Swedish fish, chocolate covered pretzels…..We’ve got it.
Hoping your holiday season and the New Year are filled with much joy, happiness and success.