Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in. Loaded with tender beef short ribs and flavorful chicken sausage, this chili brings together a delightful mix of spices and ingredients that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a filling meal or a crowd-pleaser, this chili will definitely stand out with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef short ribs and chicken sausage creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion—be it game day, family gatherings, or simply a weeknight dinner.
• Comforting Meal: The warm spices and hearty ingredients make it an ideal choice for chilly evenings.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this chili is simple enough for cooks of all levels.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the heat with more jalapenos or add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your chili-making experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the chili evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware; it helps blend flavors well.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables and meats, making prep time efficient.

Ingredients

This spicy chili is loaded with tender beef short ribs simmered with Mexican chicken sausage, fire roasted tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices, award winning!

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes))
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion (chopped)
– 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped (use serranos for hotter, or more to taste))
– 6 cloves garlic (chopped (or more to taste))
– 1 pound Mexican chicken sausage
– 1 cup beef stock
– 3 15-ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes
– 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained)
– 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (drained)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons chili powder blend (I’m using a hot New Mexican blend)
– 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Hot sauce (to taste)
– 2 tablespoons corn meal (optional, for thickening – or use crushed or torn corn tortillas)
– Your favorite toppings for serving

How to Make Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
* Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
* Sear them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust.
* Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Add chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot.
* Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Add chopped garlic and Mexican chicken sausage.
* Cook for another 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage until it’s mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Add Spices

Stir in chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
* Cook for about 1 minute to let the spices bloom.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in beef stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return reserved short ribs to the pot along with fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, red kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
* Stir everything together well.

Step 7: Simmer

Bring to a boil then reduce heat.
* Cover and simmer for about 2 hours or until short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 8: Thicken if Needed

If you find your chili too soupy, stir in corn meal and continue simmering until thickened.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings before serving. Enjoy your delicious Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili!

How to Serve Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or a hearty family meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

Classic Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the spices in the chili.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness.

Accompanying Dishes

• Cornbread – Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs well, soaking up the delicious chili flavors.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture and can be used for scooping.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices add a refreshing touch to each bowl.

Garnishes

• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Green Onions – Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

How to Perfect Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

To make your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality meat elevate the flavors tremendously.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Experiment with different amounts of jalapenos or hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps deepen the flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Freeze for Later – This chili freezes well, so make extra for quick meals later on. Just reheat before serving!
• Add More Beans – For added texture and nutrition, include more varieties of beans like pinto or cannellini beans.

Best Side Dishes for Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw provides a nice crunch that balances the richness of the chili.
3. Rice – Fluffy rice can soak up the chili juices, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies add a smoky flavor that complements the chili’s spices.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers a cool contrast to the warm chili.
6. Simple Salad – A mixed greens salad dressed lightly helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving a flavorful dish.

• Skipping the Sear: Not searing the short ribs can result in a bland flavor. Always sear them first to develop a rich taste.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking onions and peppers too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture for the best results.
• Ignoring Spice Measurements: Using too little or too much spice can alter the chili’s flavor dramatically. Stick to recommended amounts and adjust gradually.
• Not Tasting While Cooking: Failing to taste throughout cooking can lead to an imbalanced flavor. Regularly check seasoning and adjust as needed.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Skipping the long simmer time means tougher short ribs. Allow enough time for flavors to meld and meat to become tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring often until heated, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious chili.

Can I use different meats in this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or beef if you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked properly.

How spicy is the Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

The spice level depends on your choice of jalapenos or serrano peppers. Adjust according to your taste!

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based sausage alternatives.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular options include diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Customize it as you like!

How long does it take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 140 minutes but may vary based on your stove type and heat settings.

Final Thoughts

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is not only hearty but also customizable! With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings to make it your own!