# Components:
→ Meats
01 - 14 oz smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), sliced
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
→ Beans
06 - 14 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 14 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
→ Tomatoes & Liquids
08 - 14 oz crushed tomatoes
09 - 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 - 2 tbsp tomato paste
11 - 2 tsp chili powder
12 - 1 tsp ground cumin
13 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
15 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
16 - 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
17 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
→ Garnishes (optional)
18 - Chopped fresh cilantro
19 - Shredded cheddar cheese
20 - Sour cream
21 - Sliced green onions
# Directions:
01 - Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
03 - Incorporate the minced garlic and finely chopped jalapeño (if using) into the pot. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast and release their aromas.
05 - Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, drained and rinsed kidney beans, drained and rinsed black beans, and the browned sausage to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all components.
06 - Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring periodically, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded.
07 - Taste the chili and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
08 - Ladle the hot chili into bowls. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions.
