Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further! This deer sausage chili recipe is a fantastic way to use up that venison you’ve got in the freezer, transforming it into a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. This healthy meal is packed with protein and flavor, offering a delicious alternative to traditional beef chili. Get ready to experience the best recipes with this homemade cooking delight!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb deer sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
Get started:
- Brown the deer sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Building the flavor:
- Add the onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Simmering to perfection:
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
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Return the cooked deer sausage to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or sliced avocado.
Tips for the Best Deer Sausage Chili:
- Don't overcook the sausage: Overcooked sausage can become dry and tough. Brown it well, but don't let it burn.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For a spicier kick, add more!
- Use a good quality chili powder: The quality of your chili powder will significantly impact the overall flavor of your chili. Look for a blend with a good balance of smoky and earthy notes.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Add some heat: Incorporate a diced jalapeño pepper with the onions and peppers for extra spice.
- Beef it up: Add 1 pound of ground beef along with the deer sausage for a heartier chili.
- Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the deer sausage with 1 cup of cooked lentils or 1 package of vegetarian crumbles.
- Cornbread Pairing: Serve your chili with a side of homemade cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) would include a significant amount of protein from the deer sausage and beans, along with fiber from the beans and vegetables. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients. This recipe is a healthy and balanced option, perfect for incorporating into a well-rounded diet.
This deer sausage chili recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or a cozy night in. Enjoy!