Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

If you’re craving a chili that feels like a warm hug straight from the heart of the South, this Award Winning Southern Soul Chili is exactly what you need. Imagine the rich, smoky aroma of simmering beef and spicy sausage, mingling with a deep, tangy BBQ kick and a hint of honey sweetness—this chili is a flavor symphony that hits all the right notes. Passed down and perfected over time, it’s a little mysterious how this exact combination came to be, but trust me, it’s a game-changer you’ll want to make your own. This chili is hearty, soul-satisfying, and packed with layers of bold, comforting flavors that will make your kitchen smell like heaven. So grab your favorite pot, and let’s make some magic happen!

Why You’ll Love Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

This recipe isn’t just about ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a weekend cookout with friends, or simply treating yourself to something delicious and soul-warming, this chili fits the bill perfectly.

Is this Award Winning Southern Soul Chili for you? Let’s see. This chili is…

1. Bold and smoky, with just the right heat from chili powder and spicy sausage that wakes up your taste buds.
2. Thick and hearty, thanks to a double dose of rich beef and flavorful beans that fill you up without weighing you down.
3. Comfortingly sweet and tangy, with BBQ sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey playing a perfect supporting role.
4. A complex flavor experience with layers—from fresh veggies like poblano, celery, and onion to the deep richness of lager beer and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Totally versatile—serve it with cornbread, on a baked potato, or even over rice for a soul-satisfying meal.

Quick Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, let this chili simmer low and slow. It only gets better the longer it cooks!

Ingredients in Award Winning Southern Soul Chili

Here’s the magic in this chili—it brings together simple, soulful ingredients that create something unforgettable:

Ground Beef: The hearty base, providing rich, meaty goodness.

Hot Sausage: Adds a spicy kick that’s essential for that Southern soul flavor.

Chili Powder: The key spice that ties everything together with warmth and heat.

Poblano Pepper: Adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of freshness.

Celery and Onion: The classic flavor combo that gives a wonderful aromatic base.

Garlic: Because nothing beats that fragrant punch.

Kosher Salt & Ground Pepper: To season and balance every bite perfectly.

Tomato Paste & Crushed Tomatoes: Bring a deep, tangy tomato backbone.

BBQ Sauces (regular & spicy): The secret Southern twist—sweet, smoky, and a bit fiery.

Lager Beer: Adds a rich maltiness and complexity.

Beef Stock: For extra depth and that luscious mouthfeel.

Worcestershire Sauce & Balsamic Vinegar: Provide umami and a subtle tang that elevates the whole dish.

Honey or Sugar: To balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.

Kidney Beans & Black Beans: Hearty, protein-packed beans that give great texture and substance.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions:

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by heating a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. This ensures an even sear on your meat, building rich flavor.

Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and hot sausage, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Add the Veggies: Toss in the chopped poblano, celery, minced onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Season It Up: Stir in the chili powder, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Let the spices toast for a minute to unlock their aroma.

Add the Tomato Base: Mix in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine.

Pour in the Liquids: Add your favorite BBQ sauces, lager beer, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir everything until blended perfectly.

Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This lets all those bold flavors meld into a rich, hearty chili.

Add Beans: Finally, stir in the rinsed and drained kidney beans and black beans. Simmer another 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish as you like, and get ready for some serious comfort food bliss.

How to make Award Winning Southern Soul Chili?

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to brighten up the richness.

Crusty Bread: Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up every bit of the saucy goodness.

Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cooling contrast to the chili’s bold flavors.

Vegetable Sides: Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, or even a simple sautéed green add freshness and texture.

As a Standalone: This chili is hearty and filling enough to enjoy all on its own, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure spices the night before for a quicker cooking session.

Spice It Up: Feel free to add extra chili powder or cayenne if you love a serious heat kick.

Dietary Adjustments: Use turkey sausage or lean beef to lighten it up, or swap beans for your favorites.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Double the Batch: This chili freezes wonderfully. Make a big pot, then freeze portions for busy days ahead.

Tips & Variations

Secret Tip: For a smoky depth, try adding a splash of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo.

Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have poblano? A green bell pepper works fine. No lager? Use a dark beer or even beef broth.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute hot sausage with mild sausage?
A1: Absolutely! Mild sausage will mellow the heat but still deliver great flavor.

Q2: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
A2: Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it covered in the fridge and reheat gently.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Use airtight containers and keep refrigerated up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this chili?
A5: Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! It freezes well and is perfect for batch cooking.

Conclusion

So there you have it—Award Winning Southern Soul Chili, a bowl full of heart, heat, and soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe delivers all the comfort and bold flavor you could want. Trust me, once you try it, this chili will become a favorite you’ll keep coming back to. Happy cooking, friend!