Meats – The Heart of the Chili:

• 2 lbs Bone-in Beef Short Ribs: The star of the show! Bone-in short ribs are essential for this recipe because they provide an incredible depth of flavor that you just can’t get from ground beef alone. As they slow cook, the collagen in the short ribs breaks down, rendering them incredibly tender and enriching the chili with a luxurious, beefy richness. Look for well-marbled short ribs for the best flavor and texture. The bone also contributes significantly to the broth, adding even more depth and complexity. Don’t be tempted to use boneless short ribs; the bones are key to the magic of this chili.
• 1 lb Mexican Chorizo: Chorizo brings a smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy dimension to the chili that perfectly complements the richness of the short ribs. Mexican chorizo, unlike Spanish chorizo, is typically raw and sold in casings. It’s seasoned with a vibrant blend of spices, including chili powder, paprika, garlic, and vinegar, which infuses the chili with a complex and exciting flavor profile. Remove the chorizo from its casing before cooking. If you prefer a milder chili, you can use sweet chorizo, but for the authentic flavor and a touch of heat, Mexican chorizo is highly recommended.

Aromatic Vegetables – Building the Flavor Base:

• 1 large Yellow Onion, diced: Onions form the foundational aromatic base for almost any great chili. Yellow onions are preferred for their balanced flavor that becomes sweet and mellow as they cook down. Dicing them ensures they soften beautifully and meld seamlessly into the chili, adding a subtle sweetness and depth.
• 2 Green Bell Peppers, diced: Green bell peppers provide a slightly bitter and earthy note that balances the richness of the meats and the sweetness of the onions. They also add a pleasant texture to the chili. You can substitute with other colors of bell peppers if you prefer, but green bell peppers offer a classic chili flavor profile.
• 2 Jalapeño Peppers, minced (seeds and membranes removed for less heat, leave some for more): Jalapeños are crucial for adding a touch of heat and complexity. The level of heat can be easily controlled by adjusting the amount of seeds and membranes you leave in. For a milder chili, remove them all; for a spicier kick, leave some or all. Jalapeños contribute a fresh, vibrant heat that is distinct from the smoky heat of chili powder and chorizo.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic that adds pungency and depth to the chili. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its robust flavor. It complements the onions and peppers, creating a well-rounded aromatic foundation for the chili.

Tomatoes and Beans – Body and Substance:

• 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the liquid base of the chili and provide a rich tomato flavor. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best taste. The acidity of the tomatoes balances the richness of the meats and adds brightness to the overall flavor profile.
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce further enhances the tomato flavor and adds body to the chili. It helps create a thicker, more substantial consistency.
• 15 oz Diced Tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes add texture and chunks of tomato to the chili, providing a pleasant contrast to the smoother crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Undrained diced tomatoes contribute to the liquid content of the chili.
• 15 oz Kidney Beans, drained and rinsed: Kidney beans are a classic chili bean, known for their firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. They add protein, fiber, and substance to the chili, making it more filling and nutritious. Draining and rinsing the beans removes excess starch and sodium.
• 15 oz Black Beans, drained and rinsed: Black beans offer a slightly earthier and sweeter flavor compared to kidney beans. They also contribute to the texture and nutritional value of the chili, adding variety and depth. Draining and rinsing is also recommended for black beans.

Spices and Seasonings – Layers of Flavor:

• 2 tbsp Chili Powder: Chili powder is the cornerstone of chili flavor, providing a blend of spices that includes dried chili peppers, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. Use a good quality chili powder for the best flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference for spiciness.
• 2 tsp Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor that complements the chorizo and enhances the overall complexity of the chili. It’s a key ingredient for achieving that authentic chili taste.
• 2 tsp Ground Cumin: Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that is essential for chili. It adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile and pairs beautifully with chili powder and smoked paprika.
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a slightly minty and herbaceous note that balances the richness of the other spices and ingredients. It contributes to the overall complexity and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (or more to taste): Cayenne pepper provides an extra kick of heat. Adjust the amount to your preference for spiciness. If you prefer a milder chili, you can omit cayenne pepper or use a smaller amount.
• Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. Season generously throughout the cooking process, tasting and adjusting as needed.

Liquids and Finishing Touches:

• 4 cups Beef Broth: Beef broth provides the liquid base for the chili and adds even more beefy flavor. Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content. You can also use homemade beef broth for an even richer flavor.
• 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity and brightness that balances the richness of the chili and enhances the overall flavor profile. It also helps to tenderize the short ribs.
• Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of freshness to the finished chili. It’s the perfect garnish to complement the rich and savory flavors.
• Optional Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped green onions, tortilla chips (for serving) – these are all fantastic options to customize your chili and add extra layers of flavor and texture.