SMOKED HELLES CHILI

Brewer’s Note: The smoky notes in the lager perfectly complement the robust flavors of the chili. This is an easy to make, simple recipe that is begging for you to personalize it with additional spices and ingredients to make it your own. For best results make it one day ahead and cool it in the fridge overnight. Gently warm it over low heat on the stove before serving.

INGREDIENTS:

8 oz (1 cup) Natural Bridge: Smoked Helles (for cooking)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and diced

6 garlic cloves minced

1 pound ground beef

1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed

1 tablespoon EACH of chili powder, cumin, paprika (sweet or smoked)

28 oz can diced tomatoes

1-2 oz sweet, smoky bbq sauce (your favorite from the store is perfect)

15 oz can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed

15 oz can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Kosher salt and pepper

Required cookware: Oven-proof pot with a lid (preferably a Dutch oven!)

RECIPE:

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the onion.  Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the edges begin to brown.  Add the jalapeño and garlic, sauté for one minute more.  Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the beef and sausage.  Break up the chunks with a large wooden spoon and sauté until brown, 6-8 minutes or so.  Add the spices to the pot and mix for about a minute.  Pour in the beer and scrape up any brown bits that have collected on the bottom and sides of the pot.  Add the bbq sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice and mix.  Bring the pot to a boil then immediately turn down the heat to maintain a low simmer.  Cook for about 30 minutes.                                                                                                        

Add the beans and mix them into the chili, simmer for about 30 minutes more.  Adjust the flavor with salt and pepper, a little bit at a time (don’t skip this step!).  Serve immediately in bowls, or allow to slightly cool (about 20 minutes), then put it in the fridge overnight to let the flavors meld.

Remember, making your own combo of toppings is critical to the chili experience! Some recommended additions are: squeeze of lime, chopped green onions, sour cream, shredded cheese, pickled jalapenos, cilantro, avocado slices and tortilla chips. Get yourself a pint of Smoked Helles and enjoy!