Warm Up Your Winter

When the temperatures drop and snow blankets the ground, there’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of chili to warm you up. Add Pitboss Brown Ale to the mix, and you’ll take your winter comfort food to the next level! This American Brown Ale, with its slightly roasty, slightly sweet maltiness and nutty flavor profile, is the perfect addition to a hearty, flavorful chili.

Pitboss Brown’s blend of four hops provides just the right amount of spiciness, complemented by smoky, oaky undertones and a touch of smooth orange citrus. These complex flavors enhance the richness of the chili, making it a crowd-pleaser for winter gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.

Recipe: Winter Chili with Pitboss Brown Ale

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with turkey or plant-based ground meat)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup Pitboss Brown Ale
• 1 cup beef or vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for a warm, wintery twist)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for cooking
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, or crushed crackers

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Brown the Meat
   Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Add Spices and Tomato Paste
   Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom and become aromatic.

4. Deglaze with Pitboss Brown Ale
   Pour in the Pitboss Brown Ale and stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly and deepen the flavor.

5. Simmer the Chili
   Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices), stock, and beans. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Thicken and Finish
   For a thicker chili, remove the lid for the final 10-15 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chili in hearty bowls and top with your favorite winter-friendly garnishes—like sharp cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of diced green onions. Pair it with a pint of Pitboss Brown Ale for the perfect winter feast that warms you from the inside out.

Why Pitboss Brown Ale?

Pitboss Brown’s nutty, roasty maltiness and oaky undertones create a deep, rich base that elevates the flavor of the chili. Its hints of citrus and smoky spices add a unique complexity, making it an ideal choice for winter comfort food.

So, whether you’re huddled up after a day in the snow or hosting friends for a winter gathering, this chili will hit the spot. Grab a six-pack of Pitboss Brown Ale, fire up the stove, and let the flavors of winter take over. Cheers to cozy nights and great beer! ❄️🍺