Winter Sunday Football Chili

In Wisconsin, Sunday football is more than just a sport; it’s a cherished tradition. And what better way to enjoy the game than with a steaming pot of hearty chili simmering on the stove? This classic chili recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd of cheering fans. With a blend of flavorful spices, ground beef, beans, and tangy tomato goodness, this chili is sure to keep everyone warm and satisfied throughout the game. As you cheer on your team, the enticing aroma of the chili will fill the air, making it an essential part of your football Sunday ritual.

Serves 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion
• 2–3 cloves garlic
• 2–3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
• ¼–½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 dashes hot pepper sauce
• 4 tablespoons dried cumin
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1½ teaspoons dried oregano leaves
• 1 28-ounce can tomato puree
• 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes or 2 tomatoes, peeled and seeded
• 2 16-ounce cans dark red pinto beans

Garnishes:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped onion or green onion
• Corn chips

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large enameled roasting pan or stock pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the yellow onion until soft and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. To prepare the garlic, smash the cloves on a cutting board using the flat side of a chef’s knife (keeping the blade away from your hands) and then chop. This technique will help the garlic skin to peel off easily. Add the chopped garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Combine Spices and Cook: Return the cooked ground beef to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Add the chili powders, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat to release the spices’ flavors.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the tomato puree and diced tomatoes (or freshly peeled and seeded tomatoes) along with 1 cup of water. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Partially cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, or longer if preferred. If the chili reduces too much during cooking, add more water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Pinto Beans: Approximately 15 minutes before serving, open the cans of dark red pinto beans, rinse them, and then add them to the simmering chili. Stir well to heat the beans through. Adjust the seasoning by adding more hot sauce, salt, and/or black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot and flavorful chili into individual bowls. Offer a variety of garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped onions or green onions, and corn chips. Each person can customize their chili with their preferred toppings.

TIPS:

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or hot pepper sauce according to your taste preference.
• Make the chili ahead of time and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld and intensify, making it even tastier the next day.
• Use your favorite beans or a combination of different beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, or cannellini beans, for added texture and flavor.
• Feel free to add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the chili for extra color and a burst of flavor.
• Leftover chili can be refrigerated and enjoyed for several days. It also freezes well, making it a convenient and delicious option for future meals.

This Sunday Football Chili is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for gathering friends and family to enjoy the game together. Its rich and hearty flavors, paired with an array of delightful garnishes, create a satisfying bowl of warmth and goodness. Whether your team wins or loses, this chili is guaranteed to be a winning dish that everyone will love. So, grab a bowl, settle in, and savor the game-day excitement with a delicious spoonful of chili!