Award-Winning Southern Soul Chili

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This rich and hearty Southern chili is loaded with beef, beans, bold spices, and soul-warming flavor. A must-make recipe for game day or cozy nights.

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

900g (2 lbs) ground beef

2 cans (400g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed

2 cans (400g each) diced tomatoes

1 can (400g) tomato sauce

3 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup beef broth or water (as needed for consistency)

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Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Brown the Beef:

Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Spice It Up:

Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and brown sugar. Cook for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Add Liquids & Beans:

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Simmer:

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and full of flavor.

Serve:

Let rest for 10–15 minutes. Serve hot with cornbread, sour cream, or shredded cheese if desired.

Resting enhances the flavor—great for meal prep or leftovers.

Adjust heat with cayenne, hot sauce, or chipotle powder.

Can be transferred to a slow cooker after browning for a convenient hands-off version.

Tastes even better the next day.

Find it online: https://allrecipesmade.com/award-winning-southern-soul-chili/