Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with a hearty bowl of Beef and Dark Beer Chili! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich flavors of tender ground beef, zesty spices, and the deep, robust notes of dark beer for a chili experience that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, this dish promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. With just 15 minutes of prep and an hour of cooking, you’ll be savoring a bowl of comfort that’s sure to impress. Ready to dive into the ultimate chili adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can dark beer
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions to the browned beef and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle chili powder over the meat mixture and stir thoroughly to coat the beef and distribute the spice evenly.
- Pour in the dark beer, using it to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, which will add depth of flavor.
- Add diced tomatoes and drained kidney beans to the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Allow the chili to cook slowly for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot. Optional: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped cilantro.
Tips
- Choose the Right Beer: Opt for a high-quality dark beer, such as a stout or porter, to enhance the flavor of your chili. The richer the beer, the deeper the taste!
- Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This step not only adds flavor but also creates those delicious caramelized bits that make your chili irresistible.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic. Allowing them to soften and caramelize will add a wonderful sweetness and depth to your chili.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference. If you like it hot, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper!
- Let it Simmer: The longer you let your chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. If time allows, let it cook for up to 90 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the garnishes! Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro can elevate your chili to the next level.
- Make it Ahead: Chili is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
