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Secret-Ingredient Homestyle Chili

beef chili with corn, tomato based chili in a bowl with cornbread

This smoky, homestyle chili is award-worthy with its complex depth and balance of flavors made possible by the addition of liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. 

  • Author: Mandy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6-8 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (venison works well too)

1 medium onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

Two 16-ounce cans Bush’s Red Chili Beans

Two 28-ounce cans diced tomatoes

1 cup beef stock

2 cups canned corn kernels, drained

4 tablespoons Stubb’s Hickory Liquid Smoke

3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce

3 tablespoons dark brown sugar

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, red bell pepper, and garlic until meat is browned and onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Add beans, tomatoes, and beef stock, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to maintain a simmer.
  • Stir in corn, liquid smoke, Worcestershire sauce, dark brown sugar, chili powder, and balsamic vinegar.
  • Continue simmering for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasonings periodically.
  • Serve and enjoy.

Keywords: chili, red bean chili, hickory liquid smoke chili, secret ingredient chili,