$20000 Prize Winning Chili Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)

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An outstanding chili recipe made with beef and pork, beer, tomato sauce, spices, and a hint of cocoa powder for that prize-winning flavor.

serves/makes:

ready in:

2-5 hrs

22 reviews
3 comments

ingredients

2 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
1 pound lean ground pork
1 cup finely chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 can (12 ounce size) beer
1 can (8 ounce size) tomato sauce
1 cup water
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons beef bouillon granules
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, to taste
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon cornmeal
1 tablespoon warm water

directions

Add the beef and pork to a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned.

Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the grease. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 4 minutes.

Add the beer, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, cumin, bouillon, oregano, paprika, sugar, cocoa powder, coriander, and hot sauce. Mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pan and let the chili simmer, covered, for 2 hours. Check the chili occasionally to make sure it is maintaining the low simmer.

Combine the flour and cornmeal in a bowl. Whisk in the warm water, mixing until smooth.

Stir the cornmeal mixture into the chili. Mix well. Cook, covered, for another 20 minutes then serve the chili hot.

recipe tips

Serve the chili with toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped onions, or cilantro to add flavor and texture.

For a heartier chili, add beans such as kidney beans or black beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking, as the flavors will develop and change over time.

Using unsweetened cocoa powder is important to avoid adding sweetness to the chili.

To enhance the flavors, try toasting the spices in a dry pan for a minute before adding them to the chili.

Adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice at the end of cooking can brighten the flavors of the chili.

If the chili is too acidic, a pinch of baking soda can help balance the flavors.

Experiment with using a combination of ground and cubed beef or pork for a varied texture to the chili.

Allowing the chili to rest or cool before reheating can deepen the flavors, making it even better the next day.

common recipe questions

Why mix beef and pork in this chili recipe?

Mixing beef and pork offers a more flavor, with the beef providing a strong base and the pork adding a rich, subtle sweetness.

What does the cocoa powder do for the chili?

Cocoa powder adds a complex, rich undertone that enhances the savory flavors without making the dish taste like chocolate.

Can I substitute the beer?

Yes, you can use beef broth, chicken broth, or non-alcoholic beer as a substitute for beer to maintain the liquid ratio and add flavor.

Is it necessary to brown the meat before adding other ingredients?

Browning the meat is crucial for developing a deeper flavor by caramelizing the surface of the meat, which adds richness to the chili.

What type of beer works best in this recipe?

A darker beer like a stout or porter will add more flavor than a light beer, but choose a beer that you enjoy drinking for the best results.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the meat and sauteing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

How can I thicken the chili if it's too thin?

The flour and cornmeal mixture will thicken the chili, but if it's still too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a little while longer to reduce and thicken. You can also add more of the thickening mix if it still hasn't thickened after 30 minutes.

Can the chili be made spicier or milder?

Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce, chili powder, and even adding diced jalapenos for extra spice.

How long can this chili be stored?

Store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat the chili over medium-low heat on the stove or in the microwave.

nutrition data

588 calories, 43 grams fat, 11 grams carbohydrates, 37 grams protein per cup. This recipe is low in carbs.

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reviews & comments

Anne August 21, 2020

I had this recipe years ago and lost it in a move. I am so glad that it is published here because it is the best chili ever. If you want beans add a can. However, best chili ever.
Miss Farkus REVIEW:
January 23, 2020

This is my go to chili recipe for YEARS. I tend to make it different each time as I go, but always follow this as a base. It's really the best! I end up usually adding a lot more spice and more tomato sauce and tomatoes. I've mixed up the type of beer I use but I think I tend to really like either Yuengling or genesee cream ale the best. I like eating it with cheese, sour cream, and fritos (or plopped on top of corn bread). For those complaining about lack of beans...the beauty in cooking is you get to add what you like! Want beans? Add beans. lol.
Granny Gooseweed REVIEW:
October 22, 2019
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Easy Paleo Biscuits Recipe | Paleo Biscuit Recipe with Almond Flour

I made this chili today and it is the most delicious chili ever. I added a can of black beans & everything else is perfect. Thanks Checking out other recipes on this site.I would rate this as a "10"
Violeta REVIEW:
January 31, 2019

This is my go to chili recipe since 2004, I found it online when I was looking for a recipe with Cocoa in it. The copy I have was exported from Mastercook by Christopher E. Eaves. The changes I have made include changing the boullion to 1 packet of onion soup mix and changing the tomato sauce to canned diced tomatoes. I also add 1 can of kidney beans.I made it so much that I combined a huge batch of the dry spices chili, cumin, oregano, paprika, cocoa, and coriander, which made it super quick to make. I put it in spice bottles that I gave to my friends with the recipe! Awesome recipe with a great hearty taste!
david wederath REVIEW:
March 3, 2018

I won 1st place at my works chilli cook off with this recipe had to add a little more heat, make this without beans and it makes a great chilli dog................
Jim REVIEW:
January 7, 2017

I won first place in a cook-off at my church against 20 other entries.
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
November 1, 2015

There's so many regional versions for what each call "chili" If someone thinks that because a recipe doesn't have tomatoes and/or beans is way off the mark mentally. I love both beans and tomatoes, but don't care for either in my chili. I have used beans but it was because I just felt like it at the time. I have tried chili all over the map and as a result, have a personal rule to not have chile north of the mason-dixon line and even at that border, find some that aren't appealing at all. I do make an exception for coney island chili which is really in a class by itself. As a rule, when I make chili, I only by CASI rules when I cook. I have won and placed in more than a few chili cookoff championships which generally all abide by CASI rules. Using those "rules" as a guideline woul leave most of the stuff called chili suited to be called stew, near ratatouille, or just garbage.
Slowpoke REVIEW:
October 2, 2015

I love this recipe.I use my own home made chili powder and roast and grind the cumin and coriander seeds.This helps to UP the flavor.I also use a strong flavored beer.
SJ Bright REVIEW:
September 27, 2015

This was the best chili I've made or had for that matter! And better yet, my middle daughter who declares that she does not like chili, loved it as well.I used a couple of cans of light red kidney beans, dark cocoa powder, and struggled to figure out which beer since I"m not a beer drinker. Killians Irish Red was a great choice. Can't wait to make this again for an adult crowd and see what the reception is!
Plastic Chef March 24, 2015

Wow people. Beans or no beans. If that is what throws you off entirely then you need to expand your pallets and experience more foods from different parts of the country and or world. Chili doesn't have to have beans
AChiliRecipes REVIEW:
October 31, 2013

This chili has everything that I love in chili in it. Combo of meats, beer, chocolate, and of course, hot sauce. The coriander is a really unique touch and I think it really helps set this chili apart even further from regular old "boring" chili recipes.
MoeWin REVIEW:
February 9, 2013

Best Chili hands down! Everytime I make it, it gets rave reviews. The only thing I do different is that I add a can of (rinsed) kidney beans, because up here in Canada, chili lovers expect there to be beans in their chili! I've also served this in an edible bread 'bowl' ....YUM!!
Angela REVIEW:
October 10, 2012

I tried this recipe for a little kids' Halloween gathering this past weekend, and it was absolutely excellent. I didn't have everything, so I swapped out a little lovage for the coriander, some powdered cayenne for the paprika, and I did add a couple cans of beans. The cocoa and beer gave it a delicious, rich flavor. The kids loved it, the adults (who added some hot sauce as desired) loved it. I will definitely make this again.
Bryguy REVIEW:
September 15, 2012

This was the best chili I have ever tasted. After traveling the United States for the Marines, I tried it all...and this is it. Everyone I have served this to wanted to know what was in it and a copy of the recipe. I don't know about $20,000 but I give it an addaboy!!
CookinMom REVIEW:
September 18, 2011

I use this as a base for my chili..I personalize it with beans and tomatoes (and more sugar for my personal bowl). My husband and I both love it. Chili can be made a million different ways, even in my own house... I add the sugar and cheese on top, dh puts raw onions, sour cream, and cheese but this recipe is a great base for both of us.
John REVIEW:
January 10, 2011

This combination of ingredients cannot be bad. I too chose to try it because of the addition of cocoa. I've used that in chili before and really liked the difference it made. I scaled back just a little on everything because I used 1# beef and 1# turkey. I left out the beef and used water instead. I also added two cans of diced tomatoes and two cans of dark kidney beans. The negative comments are way, way off mark. Example: I've had great beer and less than great beer. That didn't necessarily make the less than great beer bad.
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
January 9, 2010

I just this morning wrote on my blog about people who have no business writing reviews. Chili is a very personal thing, we all like it different. I have several recipes that I use. The original Cincinatti Chili has no beans. I loved this because it has chocolate that really brings out the true chili flavors. If you want beans add them, don't talk about how bad it is if you're not willing to try something different. I have made this several times and always got rave reviews. Congratulations on your winning recipe.
heidi REVIEW:
December 15, 2009

I have used this recipe for years with our tailgates, etc. I love it. Most people hate beans in the chili so it works for me. You need to have garnishes for it and people will love it (cornbread, hot fresh sauteed jalepenos, shredded cheddar, tostitos scoop chips, sour cream). We LOVE it.
Hopie REVIEW:
October 13, 2009

I made this recipe exactly as printed. It was horrible. However I rescued it by adding a cup ketchup, 4 oz tomatoe sauce, 2 T br sugar, 1 can dice tomatoes,2 teas salt, 1 1/2 Table basil and 1 tsp cilantro and 1 bay leaf. Then it was delicious.
rich REVIEW:
February 21, 2008

The worst chili i ever made the 2 first reviews were right its taco bell meat sauce. Its so horrible i could not believe someone won with that chili. Thats how bad this was AND dont blame the cook , red flag when the recipe had no beans!!!!!!!!!!!
- CDKitchen Staff Reply:
  
  Whether or not chili has beans in it is a regional thing. You'll see great debates over whether to add beans or not!
willieinc REVIEW:
October 9, 2007

This came out pretty good, except I found it odd there are no kidney beans in this recipe. My father informed me that Texas chili is made without the beans. Still, I added kidney beans, anyway. I also like my chili to have that CHILI flavor, so I added and extra tablespoon of chili powder. Also, I didn't have coriander, so I used sage instead. I am very new at cooking, and I chose sage, because it seemed like maybe it belonged in the same taste category. I also didn't have garlic cloves, so I used what we have - minced bottled garlic- I used 4 tablespoons. A few other things I did differently; Before the meat browned, I added the onions and garlic, because I believe that flavor needs to cook into the meat. I also used one tablespoon of tabasco sauce, because we like it a little more spicy. Also, I added the kidney beans one hour into cooking, so the flavor would simmer into them. I also browned all the meat together, and I didn't remove any of the fat, as I didn't see it necessary. I find that fat gives a little extra flavor and consistancy. This recipe called for only 8 ounces of tomatoe sauce, however, I didn't think that was enough. I used 24 ounces. The results is- there is no more. I didn't even get a chance to take a picture of it to post, like i usually do here - sorry about that. I gave this recipe a 4, because of my kidney beans thing. I also think it could have used a little more flavor. Perhaps the coriander made that much of a difference? I'm also thinking maybe the tomatoe sauce may have diluted the seasonings? Well, it went quick, so it couldn't have been that bad at all!
Wes REVIEW:
February 12, 2007

I won a contest with this recipe.
Chef Orleon REVIEW:
March 2, 2006

I must agree with "slueya" that without some beans and diced tomatoes this recipe is below average at best...
slueya REVIEW:
October 26, 2005

They got ripped off for $19,998. This chili looks and tasts like Taco Bell taco meat. I even added diced tomatoes and kidney beans. It was still below average. Do not recommend.

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