Dutch Oven Beer-Braised Chili

This Dutch oven beer-braised chili is infused with the depth of beer and slow cooked to perfection in a traditional Dutch oven. This recipe brings a unique twist to a classic comfort food. The ingredients make this chili not just delicious but also nourishing.

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The tomatoes contribute vitamin C as well as the antioxidant lycopene. The onions and bell peppers are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and several other antioxidants. White beans contribute a high amount of fiber and protein.

Ingredients You'll Need for this Recipe

For the chili:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 white onion 
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 ½ cups beer
• 1 cup chopped canned tomatoes
• 2 cups cooked white beans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 teaspoons salt (or to taste) 
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano

Toppings:

• Tortilla chips
• Sour cream 
• Cilantro

How to Make Dutch Oven Beer-Braised Chili

Prep the veggies:

1. Peel and dice the onion.
2. Dice the red and green bell peppers. If they are big peppers, only use half.
3. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.

Prepare the chili:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the meat with the smoked paprika powder, onion powder, chili flakes, salt, garlic powder, and oregano. Set aside.
2. Heat the other tablespoon of olive oil to the Dutch oven. Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic with a bit of salt. Cook until the veggies are soft, browned, and fragrant.
3. Add the meat back to the Dutch oven along with the white beans and chopped tomatoes. Mix well.
4. Pour the beer into the Dutch oven, mix well, and cover with the lid.
5. Cook on low heat for 1 hour.
6. Serve with the toppings of your choice. 

How to Serve Dutch Oven Beer-Braised Chili

For a simple approach, ladle the chili into individual bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a handful of crushed tortilla chips, and chopped fresh cilantro. For a more hearty meal, serve it on a bed of steamed rice with a side salad and cornbread. The key to a great chili experience is in the toppings. Don't shy away from trying different combinations of cheese, avocado, lime wedges, or chopped red onions for added flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations for this Dish

When cooking the best Dutch Oven Chili, a few tips can enhance both the flavor and texture.

• Use lean ground meat to reduce the amount of saturated fat in the dish.
• Don't rush the cooking process. This chili benefits from slow cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use the beer of your choice, but darker beers tend to give a more intense flavor.
• If you're not a fan of beer, substitute beef broth or a strong coffee for a robust flavor.
• For a vegetarian chili, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or add extra beans, such as black or kidney beans.
• Add extra veggies like corn and diced zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• If you like a spicier chili, include a diced jalapeno or habanero pepper in the veggie preparation or add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
• Add a hint of sweetness to your chili by adding a diced sweet potato or a handful of corn kernels during the cooking process.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool before storing it. Transfer the leftover chili to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat.

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