Italian Chili

​It's football season.   Ben and my son are huge Ohio State football fans and they had the opportunity to go to a game in the horseshoe a few weeks ago.  (Thanks to a very generous uncle.)  I probably don't even need to say this but - yes, they had a fantastic time.  I can't help but thinking that the trip was a big mistake though - we now have a child who is completely convinced that he NEEDS to go to Ohio State.  He is certainly ready to spread his wings but the thought of sending him off to a school with 64,000 students is terrifying for this mom.  But, I digress.  Back to my origional point - it's football season which means it's time for football food.  And nothing says football like a bowl of Italian chili.   

Italian Chili
Pinch kosher salt
1 pound 90% lean ground beef
1 pound hot Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 ½ cups chopped onion
1 cup chopped green peppers
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes
2 15-ounce cans chili beans (I prefer S&W)
2 10-ounce cans tomato sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cumin
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Pecorino Romano, grated for serving
Garlic cheese croutons, for serving

​In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sprinkle salt.  Add beef, sausage and Italian seasoning.  Cook until meats are browned.  Drain drippings.  

​In a large pot over medium high heat add browned meats, peppers and onion, cook until onions are translucent.  

​Add garlic and cook for 2 – 3 minutes. 

​Add diced tomatoes, chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder and cumin.  Simmer for 1 hour.

​Add parsley, stir well to combine.

​Serve with grated Pecorino Romano and croutons.

​We had chili for dinner and plenty more to store in the freezer for those long, cold winter nights ahead.  Bring it on old man winter - I'm ready.  (OK so it doesn't get that cold in Georgia in the winter but we still like to eat chili.)

​I want to know what you like to eat while you watch your favorite team.  Send me a comment with your favorite football food.   

Ciao!

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