Boston Beer Chili

When the Weather Turns Chilly, Turn to Boston Beer Chili

When the weather is cold (and sometimes when it’s not!), my thoughts turn to warming soups and stews. And chili has got to be one of the heartiest options around. Filled with spices, loaded with ground beef, and rounded out with beans, it’s the perfect dinner or lunch. This East Coast version has beer in it for even more flavor.

Forget adding water or stock to the pot—some lager makes this chili a truly unforgettable recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Boston Beer Chili is a unique twist on the classic dish, blending rich flavors with a subtle hoppy undertone thanks to the addition of beer. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with protein and spices that create an explosion of flavors in every bite. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, this chili will warm your heart and your stomach.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large stock pot
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 2 lbs ground beef
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1-2 (12 oz) bottles lager beer
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with chilis, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Tabasco or chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 (16 oz) can kidney beans
• 2 cups shredded cheese of your choice
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chives, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large stock pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until no more pink remains. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use a slotted spoon to remove meat from pan and drain fat. Set aside meat until needed later.
2. Add bell pepper, onion, chili powder, paprika, red pepper flakes, cumin, thyme, and garlic powder to the pan and cook over medium-high heat until onion is softened.
3. Stir in beer, tomatoes, and tomato paste and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and add the ground beef back to the pot. Add in honey, chili sauce, and beans.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring often. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Serve with some cheese and/or a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chives.

Tips for Success

• For best results, use a lager beer, as it complements the chili flavors without overpowering them.
• Make sure to drain the fat from the beef to avoid an overly greasy chili.
• Simmering on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t rush this step!

Additional Tips and Variations

• Feel free to swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add more vegetables such as corn or zucchini to increase the nutritional content.
• For an extra kick, consider adding a chopped jalapeño pepper.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this chili ahead of time?
This chili actually tastes better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead and simply reheat.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or an extra can of beans.

Conclusion

This Boston Beer Chili is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Try it on a chilly evening, or whenever you need a comforting meal. We’d love to hear how your chili turns out, so please share your experiences and any personal twists you make to the recipe!