A hearty and flavorful chili recipe perfect for cozy dinners.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Ensure the oil is hot enough to sizzle when adding ingredients for better flavor.
Add the Italian sausage and ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks for even browning.
In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and green pepper until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and sugar, cooking for 1 minute to release the spices' aroma.
Cooking the spices briefly enhances their flavor.
Return the cooked meat to the pot and mix well with the vegetables and spices.
Ensure the meat is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot for any browned bits.
Simmer the chili on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Cover the pot partially to allow steam to escape while simmering.
Stir in the cilantro and parsley just before serving.
Adding herbs at the end preserves their fresh flavor.
Serve the chili hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions.
Pair with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.