Oktoberfest Chili Recipe

Name: Oktoberfest Chili
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 330 min
Total time: 355 min
Yield: 14
Ingredients: 2.5 pounds fresh bratwurst links, cut into 1-inch slices; 2 tablespoons bacon drippings, divided; 1 large onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 jalapeno peppers, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15 ounce) cans red beans, drained and rinsed; 2 (15 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes; 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 2 (12 fluid ounce) cans tomato juice; 2 cups sauerkraut, drained; 1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle German-style beer; 0.25 cup chili powder; 3 tablespoons white sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon cumin; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 teaspoon oregano; 2.5 ounces milk chocolate candy

Cook Time: 330 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh bratwurst links, cut into 1-inch slices
2 tablespoons bacon drippings, divided
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 jalapeo chile peppers, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 (15 ounce) cans red beans, drained and rinsed
2 (15 ounce) cans petite diced tomatoes
2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 (12 fluid ounce) cans tomato juice
2 cups sauerkraut, drained
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle German-style beer
cup chili powder
3 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cumin
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon oregano
2 ounces milk chocolate candy

Directions

Step 1: In a large skillet, cook bratwurst slices in 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bratwurst is browned and no longer pink inside, about 15 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in a large, deep pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeos, and minced garlic. Cook and stir for about 8 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add the cooked bratwurst to the pot. Stir in the red beans, petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato juice, sauerkraut, and beer. Mix in the chili powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, allspice, and oregano. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir in the milk chocolate candy until it melts completely and dissolves into the chili.

Step 5: Allow the chili to simmer for 5 hours, stirring occasionally. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and create a rich, flavorful dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Facts	Amount Per Serving
Calories	433
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	50mg
Sodium	2223mg
Total Carbohydrate	36g
Dietary Fiber	8g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	17g
Vitamin C	37mg
Calcium	109mg
Iron	5mg
Potassium	712mg

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

History and Origins

The Oktoberfest Chili is a modern fusion dish that blends the hearty and comforting flavors of traditional German cuisine with the beloved spiciness of American chili. Originating from the popular Oktoberfest celebration in Munich, this chili pays homage to the festival's famous bratwurst and sauerkraut, combining these German staples with the rich and savory base of chili. While chili itself is distinctly American, the inclusion of bratwurst and beer gives this dish a uniquely German twist, bringing the flavors of Bavaria to the dinner table. The dish became popular among festival-goers and was eventually adapted into a home-cooked meal enjoyed by chili enthusiasts across the globe.

Regional Variations

Though the Oktoberfest Chili is a relatively new creation, its roots lie deep in both German and American culinary traditions. In the southern United States, chili is often prepared with beans, ground meat, and chili peppers, while in Germany, bratwurst and sauerkraut are key elements of many dishes. This recipe harmoniously marries these two influences, incorporating German-style beer, bratwurst, and sauerkraut, while still maintaining the essence of a classic American chili. The use of ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, which are staples in Tex-Mex cooking, adds an unmistakable regional flair to the dish.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets Oktoberfest Chili apart from other chili recipes is the addition of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and German beer. Traditional chili often features beef or pork, but this recipe uses bratwurst sausage, which introduces a distinct flavor profile. The tanginess of sauerkraut contrasts beautifully with the rich, spicy base of the chili, creating a more complex and flavorful dish than a typical chili. Additionally, the inclusion of milk chocolate adds a unique depth of sweetness, balancing the spicy and tangy notes in the dish. These ingredients combine to create a chili that stands out among the usual varieties of chili, making it an exciting option for those looking to try something new.

Where It Is Typically Served

Oktoberfest Chili is often served at gatherings during the Oktoberfest season, which celebrates German beer, food, and culture. It is popular at Oktoberfest-themed parties, beer festivals, and backyard barbecues, where people enjoy the festive atmosphere with hearty food and cold beer. The dish is also ideal for casual get-togethers, where it can be served as a comforting main course or as part of a larger buffet spread. It pairs well with crusty bread, pretzels, and a refreshing glass of German-style lager or ale. Additionally, it makes for a great crowd-pleasing dish at chili cook-offs or potlucks, offering a delicious twist on the classic chili that guests will remember.

Interesting Facts

1. The Oktoberfest Chili was created as a way to celebrate Oktoberfest in a more casual, home-cooked style, providing an accessible way for people to enjoy German flavors without needing to travel to Germany.

2. One of the key ingredients in this recipe, bratwurst, is a type of German sausage made with pork, beef, or veal, and is often flavored with a variety of spices such as nutmeg, ginger, and coriander.

3. Sauerkraut, another important component of this chili, is finely shredded cabbage that has been fermented, providing a sour and tangy flavor that complements the rich and spicy base of the chili.

4. The use of milk chocolate in this dish might seem unusual, but it works to add a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat of the chili spices, making the dish more complex and layered in flavor.

5. While the chili is inspired by Oktoberfest traditions, it has become popular year-round in regions where people appreciate the bold, hearty flavors of both German and American cuisines.

FAQ about Oktoberfest Chili Recipe

Leftover Oktoberfest Chili should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing it.

Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time. In fact, many people find that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. After cooking, let it cool to room temperature and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave before serving.

Yes, you can substitute bratwurst with other sausages such as Italian sausage or smoked sausage, depending on your preference. Just make sure to slice them into bite-sized pieces and cook them thoroughly before adding them to the chili.

You can use other types of beer if you don’t have German-style beer. A light lager or even a dark beer will work, but be aware that a darker beer might make the chili a bit more bitter. Choose a beer you enjoy drinking to complement the flavors.

The chili has a mild to medium level of spiciness due to the jalapeños. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more jalapeños or use a hotter variety of chili peppers. For a milder version, reduce or omit the jalapeños.

This recipe calls for milk chocolate candy. It's important to use milk chocolate rather than dark chocolate to maintain the balance of flavors. You can use chocolate bars, chocolate chips, or even leftover Halloween candy.

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the bratwurst and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chili is thick and the flavors have melded together.

Yes, Oktoberfest Chili freezes very well. After it has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.

This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side of potato salad. You can also serve it over rice or use it as a topping for hot dogs or chili fries.

If you don't like sauerkraut, you can omit it, though it will change the overall flavor. You could replace it with additional beans or a different type of vegetable like bell peppers or zucchini for a milder version of the chili.

Comments

Ashley Adams

01/17/2023 04:40:57 PM

We absolutely adore this recipe! Following it to the letter always results in a fantastic dish. One tip though: steer clear of dark beer, as it can make the chili overly bitter. We've prepared this several times and enjoy experimenting with various microbrews. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you've got yourself a truly delightful meal.