Slow Cooker Kansas City Chili: A Hearty Blend of BBQ and Traditional Flavors

When the cold weather bites, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of chili. But this isn’t just any chili—it’s Kansas City Chili, a delightful fusion of traditional chili and the rich, smoky flavors that Kansas City is renowned for. Imagine tender, barbecued meats like pulled pork, burnt ends, and chopped brisket melding with the classic components of chili. Beans, tomatoes, onions, and a carefully curated blend of spices come together in your slow cooker, infusing your kitchen with an aroma that promises a delicious meal. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to the heart of America with this Slow Cooker Kansas City Chili recipe.

Ingredients

For the BBQ Meat:

• 1 lb pulled pork
• 1 lb burnt ends or chopped brisket
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• BBQ sauce (to taste)

For the Chili:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef broth
• Chopped fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese, for serving

Instructions

Preparing the BBQ Meat:

1. Prepare the Meat: If you’re using leftover BBQ meats, you’re ahead of the game. If not, season your choice of meat with your favorite BBQ rub and cook it as you prefer (smoked, grilled, or slow-cooked until tender).
2. Shred or Chop: Once cooked and slightly cooled, shred the pulled pork and chop the burnt ends or brisket into bite-sized pieces.
3. Mix with BBQ Sauce: In a bowl, gently toss the meat with a tablespoon of olive oil and enough BBQ sauce to coat it. Set aside. This step ensures that every piece of meat is bursting with that signature Kansas City BBQ flavor.

Making the Chili:

1. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In your slow cooker, combine the beans, tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell peppers, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
2. Add the BBQ Meat: Add the prepared BBQ meat to the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir to ensure that the flavors will meld together beautifully.
3. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 7-8 hours, or set it to high and cook for 3-4 hours. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and develop, resulting in a chili that’s rich and full-bodied.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is done, give it a good stir. Ladle it into bowls and serve topped with chopped fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese. The fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, and the cheddar cheese melts into the chili, making it irresistibly creamy.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Kansas City Chili is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day. It represents the fusion of two culinary worlds, bringing the best of traditional chili and Kansas City BBQ into your home. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet, cozy evening, this chili promises to deliver comfort and flavor in every spoonful. So, grab your slow cooker and let the magic begin!