Ultimate Hearty Venison Chili Recipe

Ingredients

• Divided into two parts, a dash of olive oil starts the culinary journey, joined by two pounds of ground venison and one and a half pounds of mild Italian sausage to create a flavorful base. A hint of richness is added with a quarter cup of butter, while a large sweet onion, a jalapeno pepper, and minced garlic offer a symphony of aromas and textures. Chopped stewed tomatoes from two cans, six tablespoons of chili powder, four teaspoons of beef bouillon granules, and a touch of liquid smoke flavoring provide depth and complexity. The spice medley continues with ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of allspice, harmonizing beautifully with the addition of Pilsner-style beer from two cans or bottles. For heartiness, light and dark red kidney beans from cans are rinsed and drained before joining the mix, along with a can of tomato sauce for a velvety finish. To elevate the dish, a touch of bourbon is added for a touch of sophistication.

Step 1

In a skillet, warm up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the venison until it turns a lovely brown color and breaks up into crumbles, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Don't forget to drain off any excess grease.

Step 2

Using another skillet, heat up the second tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage until it's crumbly and golden, which also takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Once done, mix the venison and sausage together in a large pot.

Step 3

Now, let's infuse some flavor! Melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onion, jalapeno, and garlic, and cook until they are softened and fragrant, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Next, gently transfer this aromatic mix to a food processor and give it a light blend. Add this to the meat mixture.

Step 4

Give your tomatoes a quick whirl in the food processor as well, then add them to the meat mixture. Sprinkle in the chili powder, beef bouillon, liquid smoke, cumin, cayenne, and allspice, making sure to stir well after each addition. Finally, mix in the beer, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and a splash of bourbon.

Step 5

Time to bring everything to life! Let the chili mixture come to a bubbling boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently until it thickens and reduces, which should take around 1 hour of patient simmering.