Boston Beer Chili

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (12 oz) bottle of Boston lager or your favorite beer
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Pour in the beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutesKcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 6 servings