I’m not really interested in discussing whether true chili has beans or not, or whether it’s spelled chili or chile or chilly. I’m not a purist – I just know what I like.
Okay, this is probably not for the kiddies or those with weak stomachs. It is not blazing, kill-your-gut-hot, but you definitely will be aware you are eating chili and your sinuses will be cleaned out. You are warned.
KATY’S KICK-ASS CHILI
1 pound HOT Italian sausage (I use turkey, usually, but regular will work)
1 diced onion
3-4 cloves chopped garlic
2 16-oz cans chili beans in hot sauce
2 14.5 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
1 14 oz can beef broth (you can use beer, but I usually drink that and use broth instead)
3 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 -3 Tbsp chopped hot jalapeno peppers (pickled), with 1-2 tsp of the juice
Shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
Brown sausage (if using links, remove from casing). Add diced onion and sautee until onions are soft. Add garlic and sautee 1-2 minutes longer, taking care not to scorch garlic, because that tastes bad.
Add remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for about an hour, stirring frequently, again taking care not to scorch – it just tastes bad (can you tell I’ve scorched it a couple of times?). Garnish with shredded cheese, if desired.
You’re welcome.
If you’d like to share your chili recipe, I’d love that, too. just put it in the comments or post a link. If I make it and like it better than mine, I’ll declare you the winner.