Brickyard Chili Recipe

Brown the ground beef

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When shimmering, add the ground beef in an even layer. Let sit undisturbed 2 minutes to get a sear, then break up with a wooden spoon and continue to cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer excess fat if more than 2 tablespoons remain.

Add smoked pulled pork

Push the beef to one side of the pot or remove briefly. Add the chopped smoked pulled pork to the pot to warm and combine flavors, stirring for 2–3 minutes so it heats through and begins to meld with the beef. Mix pork and beef together thoroughly.

Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the meat mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth and drained red kidney beans. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, brown sugar, dried oregano, black pepper, kosher salt and cayenne. Add the spice blend to the pot and stir thoroughly to incorporate. Taste after simmering 10 minutes and adjust salt, heat (add more cayenne) or sweetness (add a touch more brown sugar) as desired.

Lower heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens to your preferred consistency and flavors meld. If it becomes too thick, stir in up to 1/2 cup additional beef broth or water.

Stir in 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and chopped cilantro to brighten the flavors. Cook 1 additional minute, then remove from heat.

Ladle the Brickyard Chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.