Low Country Gullah Chili
"Here is a South Carolina-style chili recipe with Gullah inspiration, honoring the rich culinary heritage of the Gullah Geechee people.
Inspiration:
Okra: A staple vegetable in Gullah cuisine, adds a unique texture and subtle flavor.
Variety of Spices: Inspired by the complex spice blends used in Gullah cooking.
Fresh Herbs: The addition of cilantro adds a vibrant freshness to the dish.
Low and Slow: The long simmering time allows the flavors to meld and create a hearty and satisfying chili.
This recipe captures the essence of Gullah flavors and the warmth of Low Country hospitality. Feel free to adjust the"
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| hot Italian sausage (sweet Italian if preferred), casings removed | 1lb, 1lb, 1tbsp, 1, 2, 1, 4, 1tbsp, 2tsp, 1tsp, 1tsp, 1tsp, 1/2tsp, 1/2tsp, 1/tsp, 28oz, 15oz, 15oz, 2 cups, 1 cup, 1/4 cup |
| ground beef | |
| olive oil | |
| large yellow onion, diced | |
| green bell peppers, diced | |
| red bell pepper, diced | |
| cloves garlic, minced | |
| chili powder | |
| ground cumin | |
| smoked paprika | |
| ground coriander | |
| dried oregano | |
| cayenne pepper (more to taste) | |
| salt | |
| black pepper | |
| can crushed tomatoes | |
| can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed | |
| can pinto beans, drained and rinsed | |
| beef broth | |
| cooked okra, chopped | |
| chopped fresh cilantro |
Directions
For Serving (optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Diced avocado
- Hot sauce
- Saltine crackers
Equipment:
- Large Dutch oven or stock pot
Instructions:
- Brown the Meats: In your Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sausage, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Brown until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Saute Vegetables: Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 more minutes.
- Spice It Up: Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, coriander, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for 1 hour.
- Gullah Touch: Add the chopped okra and continue simmering for 30-40 minutes more, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded.
- Finishing Touch: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Serve and Savor: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce. Enjoy with a side of saltines for a true Southern experience!