Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Clyde's Chili for a Snowy Day


What could be better for dinner on a snowy day than a warm, hearty bowl of soup?  On a recent December day that looked like this...



I knew exactly what I wanted to make: my favorite chili like they serve at Clyde's restaurant in Washington, DC.  I've dined at the Clyde's Restaurant Group's many locations since I was a kid, and particularly love the large Christmas nutcrackers that flank the doors of the Georgetown location during the holidays.  When I dine at Clyde's -- even in the summer -- I typically start with a cup of their chili, loaded with cheddar cheese, sour cream, and diced onions on top.  

This is a sweet chili that is positively delicious.  Supposedly, it was also a favorite of Elizabeth Taylor's.  Luckily, the good people at Clyde's have shared their recipe for the world to enjoy!  It's so quick and easy, everyone should try it.  Here's my version:  



Ingredients:
1 tbsp  vegetable oil

1 tbsp  minced fresh garlic
1 lb  small diced onion
1.5 lbs  ground beef
25 oz can of chili beans

12 oz jar of chili sauce

2 tbsp  light chili powder

1/4 cup  dark chili powder

2 tbsp  Worcestershire sauce

Optional toppings (like shredded cheddar, sour cream, minced onions, oyster crackers, etc.)

Note:  I used 2 small cans of light red kidney beans.  Also, if you can't find the light chili powder at your local market, it's no big deal.  Just substitute an extra 2 tbsp of the standard dark chili powder.  The finished product is still sweet and delicious!

In a heavy bottomed pot (or dutch oven - I'm always looking for excuses to use mine!), saute the onion and garlic in vegetable oil until they are golden brown. 

Add beef and cook until medium-rare.  Don't over-stir the beef.  You still want some large clumps of beef in the finished chili.  

Add the beans, chili sauce, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce, and stir until just blended. 

Cook the chili over medium heat for about 10 minutes, just until the meat is fully cooked.  Don't overcook it!

Add toppings to your liking -- though it's great all on its own -- and enjoy! 



We enjoyed the chili for dinner with a simple salad and parmesan tater tots.  Perfection!

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