When it comes to chili that wins hearts—and awards—Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili stands proudly at the top. This recipe is rich, hearty, and full of bold flavors that make it a true comfort food classic. Crafted with a perfect blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and carefully balanced spices, this chili is designed to impress even the pickiest chili judges.
Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili:
Whether you’re entering a cook-off, hosting a tailgate, or simply craving a bowl of soul-warming goodness, Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili delivers every time. It’s thick, meaty, and bursting with flavour from the very first spoonful. One bite is enough to understand why this chili earned its “blue ribbon” title.
History of Ribbon Chili:
The origin of Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili dates back to small-town chili competitions where passionate home cooks showcased their best recipes. “Debdoozie” became a local legend after perfecting her own blend of spices, creating a chili that balanced heat, texture, and depth like no other. Her secret? The perfect ratio of meats, slow-simmered tomatoes, and a mix of spices that build flavor with every bite. Over time, this recipe became an award-winning favorite, often passed down through generations as the ultimate chili for family gatherings and friendly cook-offs.
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Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add vegetables: Stir in onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and aromatic.
- Add spices: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Add liquids and beans: Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add kidney and black beans.
- Sweeten and simmer: Mix in brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1–1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Serve hot with cornbread or crackers.
Notes
- The chili tastes even better the next day as the flavours deepen.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Substitute ground beef with turkey for a leaner option.
- For a smoky touch, use fire-roasted tomatoes.
- Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to three months.
Tips for Blue Ribbon Chili:
- Simmer low and slow – The longer it cooks, the richer the flavour becomes.
- Balance the flavours – Add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Control the spice – Adjust chili powder and cayenne for your preferred heat level.
- Top it creatively – Try avocado, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips.
- Make it ahead – This chili reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep.
FAQ’s for Debdoozie’s Blue:
Q: Can I make Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q: Can I use different beans?
Absolutely. Pinto or navy beans also work well in this recipe.
Q: Is it very spicy?
It’s medium-spicy, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper to taste.
Q: How can I thicken the chili?
Let it simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for long-term storage.
Conclusion:
Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. Each spoonful delivers a balance of spice, sweetness, and richness that makes this chili worthy of its award-winning status. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a friendly competition, this chili is guaranteed to earn compliments and clean bowls. Get ready to impress everyone with the unbeatable taste of Debdoozie’s Blue Ribbon Chili!