Ham Flannagan’S Va. Champ Chili

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Advanced
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A bold, tomato-based Virginia chili thickened with cornmeal and spiced with secret ingredients
Ham Flannagan's Va. Champ Chili recipe image
Ham Flannagan's Va. Champ Chili recipe image
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Ham Flannagan’S Va. Champ Chili

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 6 Calories: 452.9

Description

This hearty Virginia-style chili is a departure from the bean-heavy norms, focusing instead on rich, ground beef and a complex blend of spices. The defining feature is the addition of a cornmeal mush, which gives the stew a unique, velvety thickness and a subtle corn flavor. Deepened with Worcestershire sauce, a splash of sherry, and a touch of molasses, it offers a sweet-savory heat that develops beautifully as it simmers. Perfect for cold evenings or tailgates, this recipe delivers a rustic, home-cooked comfort that warms the soul. It is a satisfying, robust meal that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped jalapeños, crushed garlic, and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and cumin powder, cooking for another minute to bloom the spices.
  4. Push the vegetables to the side or remove them, then add the diced sirloin or ground beef to the hot pan.
  5. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon, and sprinkle with oregano and chili powder.
  6. Return the onion mixture to the pot if removed, then add the canned tomatoes and enough water to cover the ingredients.
  7. Bring the chili to a rapid boil, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for at least 20 minutes.
  9. In a small bowl, mix cornmeal with water to create a smooth, thin paste to avoid lumps.
  10. Stir the cornmeal paste into the chili to thicken it to your desired consistency.
  11. Add a dollop of sherry wine, a teaspoon of blackstrap molasses, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.
  12. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the chili is thick and rich.
  13. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and heat levels with additional cayenne or chili powder if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 452.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 16.3g26%
Saturated Fat 8.3g42%
Cholesterol 79.7mg27%
Sodium 135.6mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 53.2g18%
Dietary Fiber 14.4g58%
Sugars 4.0g
Protein 32.6g66%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: virginia chili, champ chili, cornmeal chili, ground beef chili, tomato chili, spicy stew, comfort food, american cuisine, worcestershire sauce, molasses chili, sherry chili, onion garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, jalapeno, dinner recipe, slow simmer
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