Sweet Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a chili recipe that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this Sweet Chili recipe is perfect for you. Combining a touch of sweetness with classic chili ingredients, it’s an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re using the stove top or a crockpot, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Needed for Sweet Chili

To create the perfect Sweet Chili, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (diced, about 1 cup)
• 2 medium cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 (16-ounce) can Bush’s Original Baked Beans
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 (8.75-ounce) can whole kernel corn (drained)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation for Sweet Chili

Stove Top Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a medium dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the crumbles. Drain away any excess grease.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: Mix in the diced onion and continue cooking until the onions are translucent and the beef is fully browned (approximately another 4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices: Incorporate the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, fine sea salt, ground black pepper, onion powder, and ground cumin. Stir well to ensure the spices coat the beef evenly.
4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the baked beans, tomato sauce, black beans, and corn. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese, and serve hot.

Crockpot Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large non-stick skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the crumbles. Drain away any grease, then add the diced onion and cook until translucent and the beef is browned (about another 4 minutes). Add the garlic and sauté until aromatic (about one more minute).
2. Transfer to Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the remaining ingredients (brown sugar, spices, baked beans, tomato sauce, black beans, and corn) and stir to combine.
3. Cook the Chili: Set the crockpot to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. The longer the chili cooks, the more the flavors will meld together.
4. Serve and Garnish: When ready to serve, ladle the chili into bowls, garnish with green onions and shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Sweet Chili

• Choosing the Right Ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize the amount of grease in the chili. Fresh garlic and onion provide the best flavor, while canned beans and corn add convenience.
• Perfectly Brown the Beef: Browning the beef correctly is key to building flavor in your chili. Make sure the skillet or dutch oven is hot before adding the meat, and avoid stirring constantly to allow the beef to brown properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Grease: After browning the ground beef, always drain the excess grease. This step prevents your chili from becoming too oily.
• Overcooking or Undercooking the Chili: Be mindful of cooking times, especially when using a crockpot. Overcooking can cause the chili to dry out, while undercooking will leave the flavors underdeveloped.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Creative Serving Options: Serve your sweet chili in bread bowls for a fun, edible container, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a hearty snack.
• Best Garnishes: Add a pop of color and extra flavor with green onions, sour cream, diced avocado, or even a squeeze of lime juice.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans (like kidney or pinto beans) for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spicy or Milder Versions: Adjust the chili powder and paprika levels to suit your taste. For a spicier chili, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Medium dutch oven or large skillet
• Crockpot (if using slow-cook method)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Proper Storage Techniques: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Best Methods for Reheating: Reheat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl to reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

• Perfect Side Dishes: Pair your sweet chili with a side of cornbread, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of rice for a complete meal.

FAQs about Sweet Chili Recipe

• Can I freeze sweet chili?
  Yes, you can freeze sweet chili in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• How can I make my chili thicker?
  If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
• Is sweet chili suitable for meal prep?
  Absolutely! Sweet chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Enjoy this deliciously sweet and savory chili recipe, perfect for any occasion! If you love this recipe, please share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes.

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