As some of you are aware, Ashley and I grew up in Texas, which means we lived and breathed chili. We still do actually. The first moment I can smell the crisp fall air I am at the store buying ingredients for chili. Chili is great for so many reasons. Once you have the base you can really put anything in it. It can be meatless or made with the meat of your choice. You can make it chunky, or leave more liquid like I prefer it. You pretty much have free reign. Get all of your ingredients on the stove and let simmer to your hearts content. The smell is one of my favorite parts.
Now, we are cheating a little bit here because our chili isn’t 100% made from scratch. We use the Wick Fowlers Texas Style Chili Kit for the seasonings. Trust us on this, you won’t regret using it. You want to start off by throwing a little bit of oil in a large pot. Cut up onion and garlic to your liking and get them browning. Then it’s time for the jalapenos. Now, this is tricky for some. Ashely and I like to burn our mouths off, so we use 4-6 jalapenos depending on size, including the seeds. Now I know you are probably thinking “they are nuts” and to be honest yes we are, but we love our spicy food.
Once you have decided on your jalapenos, throw them in on top of the onion and garlic and continue browning. Again, here is where you have your own choice. If everyone is eating the same meat go ahead and toss it in the pot at this point. If your guests are eating different meats brown them separately. Once your meat is brown, or if you aren’t adding meat pour in two 16 oz. cans of tomato sauce, and two 16 oz. cans of pinto beans. Then dump in all of the seasonings from the Wick Fowler’s Kit.
You want the chili to come to a boil, then let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. At this point, for a kick try throwing in a bottle of beer (Shiner Bock works best) or a little bit of Bourbon. You will get an extra special Texas taste.
I always top with some shredded cheddar cheese and eat with some Tostitos Scoops.
Do y’all have a special chili recipe? Let us know, and tell us if you try out ours.
Shelby xx
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