Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is the perfect dish for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends. With tender beef short ribs simmered alongside flavorful Mexican chicken sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a delightful mix of spices, this chili is sure to impress everyone at your table. It’s hearty, satisfying, and designed to warm you up from the inside out. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or cozy nights in, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of beef short ribs and chicken sausage creates a rich, savory flavor that is truly unforgettable.
• Hearty Meal: This chili is packed with protein and fiber from the beans and meats, making it a filling choice for any meal.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip this dish up without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with cornbread, rice, or top it with your favorite garnishes like cheese, avocado, or cilantro.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking your delicious chili, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps in breaking apart the chicken sausage easily.

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!

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

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

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add chopped onion and jalapeno peppers.
2. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Chicken Sausage

1. Add chopped garlic and Mexican chicken sausage to the pot.
2. Cook for an additional 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage until mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Incorporate Spices

1. Stir in chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Let it cook for about one minute to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 5: Deglaze With Stock

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

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

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

Step 7: Simmer

1. Bring mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about two hours or until short ribs are tender; check occasionally.

Step 8: Thicken if Necessary

If your chili seems too soupy:
1. Stir in corn meal gradually while simmering until desired thickness is reached.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings before enjoying!

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!

How to Serve Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Serving your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili can enhance the overall experience of this hearty dish. Here are some delicious suggestions to accompany your chili.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the heat of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle some cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a melty, flavorful addition.
• Chopped Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions offer a nice crunch and a pop of color.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide richness, making the chili even more satisfying.

Bread Pairings

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, complementing its spiciness.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips make for a great side for scooping up the chili or enjoying alongside.

Drinks

• Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade can help cut through the spiciness while adding a touch of sweetness.
• Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, sparkling water is refreshing and helps cleanse the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

To ensure your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices can elevate the flavor profile of your chili significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the number of jalapenos or adding hot sauce according to your taste preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer will deepen the flavors and make the short ribs more tender.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your chili while cooking to adjust seasoning and spice levels as needed.
• Cool Before Storing: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best Side Dishes for Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

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

1. Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich chili broth.
2. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts nicely with the warmth of the chili.
3. Rice: A bowl of fluffy rice can balance out the spice while providing additional texture.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring in smokiness that complements the flavors of the chili.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are ideal for scooping up chili, offering a satisfying crunch.
6. Side Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette provides freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when making a delicious Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your meat properly will result in bland flavors. Don’t hold back on salt and pepper; they enhance the taste of your dish.
• Overcooking the ribs: If you cook the short ribs for too long, they may become tough instead of tender. Keep an eye on them while simmering; aim for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Not letting the spices bloom: Adding spices too early can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always let them cook for a minute to release their full aroma before adding liquids.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect the overall taste of your chili. Choose fire-roasted varieties for a richer flavor profile.
• Ignoring the toppings: Toppings add texture and additional flavors to your chili. Don’t skip them; consider cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for a delightful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label with dates.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

The total time is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize my Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spice levels based on your preference.

What sides pair well with Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

How do I thicken my chili if it’s too soupy?

If your chili is too watery, stir in corn meal or crushed tortillas while simmering until you’ve reached your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is not only rich in flavor but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Try it out for your next gathering or cozy night in—you won’t be disappointed!