Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 pounds lean ground beef

1 pound ground pork sausage

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, petite, undrained

4 cups tomato juice

1 cup ketchup

2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, undrained

1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans, undrained

1 tablespoon light brown sugar

3 tablespoons chili powder

3/4 teaspoon garlic salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Cornmeal to thicken, if desired

Shredded cheddar cheese, optional

Sour cream, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Step 2: Add the ground beef and pork sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking the meat into small pieces with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 3: Stir in the red wine vinegar and cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato juice, ketchup, pinto beans, kidney beans, light brown sugar, chili powder, garlic salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Bring the chili to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat, then simmer over medium-low heat for 1 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavors meld. For a thicker chili, stir in a little cornmeal during the simmering.

Step 6: Serve the chili hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Use black beans instead of pinto or kidney beans for a different texture and flavor.

Letting the chili simmer longer enhances the depth of flavor and thickens the sauce.

Add a splash of beer instead of red wine vinegar for a subtle maltiness.

FAQs

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions as directed, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours for best results.

How can I make this chili vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef and sausage with extra beans, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes. Use vegetable broth or water instead of meat juices. Adjust seasoning as needed to boost flavor.