🍲 Sweet & Spicy Chuckwagon Homestyle Chili

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef or beef chuck, diced

• 1 tbsp bacon grease or olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained & rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed

• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth

• 3 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)

• ½ tsp cinnamon (for a touch of sweetness)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, sour cream, jalapeños, cornbread crumbles

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat bacon grease/oil over medium-high. Brown beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 5 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, and cinnamon. Cook 2 minutes to bloom the spices.

4. Add beans, diced tomatoes, broth, brown sugar/honey, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more sweetness or spice as you like!

7. Serve hot with toppings of your choice.

✨ Tip: For that true “chuckwagon” feel, serve this chili with skillet cornbread or over baked potatoes!