Deb Doozies’ Blue Ribbon Chili: A Recipe for Champions
Chili. The very word conjures images of warm, hearty bowls, brimming with savory flavors and comforting aromas. It’s a dish that transcends seasons, perfect for a chilly autumn evening, a Super Bowl party, or simply a cozy night in. But not all chili is created equal. Some are bland, some are boring, and some just… miss the mark. If you’re looking for a chili recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, look no further than Deb Doozies’ Blue Ribbon Chili. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a chili worthy of a blue ribbon, packed with layers of flavor and a depth that will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
This recipe has been passed down through generations, tweaked and perfected over time, resulting in a chili that’s both classic and unique. It’s a labor of love, but the end result is absolutely worth the effort. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embark on a chili-making adventure!
## What Makes Deb Doozies’ Chili So Special?
Several factors contribute to the exceptional flavor profile of this chili:
* **Quality Ingredients:** Using the best ingredients possible is paramount. Fresh, high-quality ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, and vibrant spices make all the difference.
* **Layering Flavors:** This recipe isn’t just about throwing everything in a pot. It’s about building layers of flavor, starting with browning the beef and building a flavorful base with onions, garlic, and spices.
* **Secret Spices:** While we’ll share the main spices, there’s a secret ingredient that adds a unique depth and complexity. (Hint: it involves coffee!)
* **Slow and Low Cooking:** Simmering the chili low and slow allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and harmonious taste.
* **The Right Balance:** Finding the perfect balance between heat, sweetness, and savory notes is crucial. This recipe provides a guideline, but feel free to adjust the spices to your personal preference.
## Deb Doozies’ Blue Ribbon Chili Recipe
**Yields:** Approximately 8-10 servings
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 3-4 hours
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for added heat)
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 tablespoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
* ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder (the secret ingredient!)
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon brown sugar
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, avocado slices, tortilla chips
**Equipment:**
* Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
* Wooden spoon or spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife
**Instructions:**
**1. Brown the Beef:**
* In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break the beef apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
* Cook until the beef is browned on all sides and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
**Why this step is important:** Browning the beef is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor. The Maillard reaction, which occurs when proteins and sugars are heated, creates hundreds of flavorful compounds that enhance the overall taste of the chili.
**2. Sauté the Vegetables:**
* Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot with the browned beef.
* Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
**Why this step is important:** Sautéing the vegetables softens them and releases their natural sweetness, adding another layer of flavor to the chili base.
**3. Add the Spices:**
* Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), cinnamon, and cloves to the pot.
* Stir the spices into the beef and vegetables and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant. This process is called “blooming” the spices.
**Why this step is important:** Blooming the spices in hot oil or fat releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavor and aroma.
**4. Add the Tomatoes and Beans:**
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the kidney beans and black beans.
* Stir to combine.
**Why this step is important:** The tomatoes provide acidity and moisture, while the beans add texture and heartiness to the chili.
**5. Add the Remaining Ingredients:**
* Pour in the beef broth. Add the cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar.
* Stir to combine.
**Why these secret ingredients?** The cocoa powder adds a subtle depth and richness, while the instant espresso powder enhances the savory notes and adds a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness. The apple cider vinegar brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity, while the brown sugar provides a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
**6. Simmer the Chili:**
* Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 3 hours, or up to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
* The longer the chili simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and the richer it will become.
**Why slow cooking is key:** Slow cooking allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together. It also helps to tenderize the beef and soften the beans, creating a more harmonious texture.
**7. Season and Adjust:**
* After the chili has simmered for at least 3 hours, taste it and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the spices as needed. If you want more heat, add more cayenne pepper. If you want more sweetness, add a touch more brown sugar.
**Why tasting is crucial:** Every batch of chili is different, depending on the quality of the ingredients and the intensity of the spices. Tasting and adjusting the seasoning is essential to ensure that the chili is perfectly balanced to your liking.
**8. Serve and Enjoy:**
* Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and avocado slices.
* Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or crackers for dipping.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Make it vegetarian:** Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground beef or lentils. You can also add more beans or vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
* **Add more vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the chili, such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
* **Use different types of beans:** Experiment with different types of beans, such as pinto beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans.
* **Make it spicier:** Add more jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to increase the heat level.
* **Make it sweeter:** Add a touch more brown sugar or a drizzle of honey to enhance the sweetness.
* **Slow cooker chili:** This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
* **Pressure cooker chili:** For a quicker version, try making this chili in a pressure cooker. Follow the instructions for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients to the pressure cooker. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
* **Make it ahead:** This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve over time!
* **Freeze it:** Chili freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
## The Secret to the Espresso Powder
Some might balk at the idea of adding espresso powder to chili, but trust us on this one. The small amount of espresso doesn’t make the chili taste like coffee, rather, it enhances the beefy and smoky notes, adding a subtle depth that you can’t quite put your finger on. It’s like a secret weapon in the chili-making arsenal.
## Toppings Galore
No bowl of chili is complete without a generous helping of toppings. Here are some of our favorites:
* **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** A classic choice that adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
* **Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt:** Adds a creamy tanginess that cools down the heat.
* **Chopped Green Onions:** Provides a fresh, oniony bite.
* **Cilantro:** Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
* **Avocado Slices:** Adds a creamy, healthy fat and a smooth texture.
* **Tortilla Chips:** For dipping and adding a crunchy texture.
* **Hot Sauce:** For those who like it extra spicy.
* **Lime Wedges:** A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch.
## Serving Suggestions
Deb Doozies’ Blue Ribbon Chili is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:
* **In a Bowl:** The classic way to enjoy chili, served with your favorite toppings and a side of cornbread or crackers.
* **Chili Dogs:** Top hot dogs with chili, cheese, and onions for a delicious and satisfying meal.
* **Chili Cheese Fries:** Load up a plate of fries with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings.
* **Chili Mac:** Combine chili with macaroni and cheese for a hearty and comforting dish.
* **Taco Salad:** Use chili as the base for a taco salad, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
* **Baked Potato Topping:** Top baked potatoes with chili, cheese, and sour cream for a satisfying and customizable meal.
## Deb Doozies’ Chili: More Than Just a Recipe
This recipe is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions; it’s a tradition, a family favorite, and a recipe for creating memories. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Deb Doozies’ Blue Ribbon Chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a chili masterpiece. With a little time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with a bowl of chili that’s worthy of a blue ribbon, and sure to become a cherished recipe in your own family.
Enjoy!
