Michigan Backroads Country Chili Mix

A hearty red bean chili built for a crowd, with a warm blend of chili spices and just enough heat to keep things interesting. Add beef and bacon, top with sour cream and shredded cheese, and serve with crusty bread. Part of Frontier Soups' Hearty Meals line.

What's in the mix: Red kidney bean, pink bean, cranberry bean, bell pepper, onion, paprika, coriander, cumin, celery, garlic, chile pepper, oregano, bay leaf, cayenne.

At a glance: Cook time: 2 hours plus soaking · Serves 10 (8 oz. servings) · Mild heat · Gluten free · Non-GMO Project Verified

You'll also need:

• 1 Tbsp. oil
• 3 slices bacon, cooked and chopped (1/2 cup), or 1/2 lb. thinly sliced pork
• 1 1/2 lbs. ground chuck
• 2 Tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth (16 oz.)
• 1 cup red wine

How to make it:

1. Prepare the beans: pick through and rinse them, then soak in 8 cups of water for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
2. Drain, cover with 8 cups fresh water, boil 10 minutes, then simmer covered 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a 4-quart pot, heat the oil over medium heat and sauté the bacon or pork.
4. Add the ground chuck and brown it.
5. Stir in the chili seasoning and the brown sugar. For a milder chili, remove one or both whole chile peppers.
6. Add the cooked beans, tomatoes, broth, and wine. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 1 hour.
7. Remove the chile peppers. Salt and pepper to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Michigan Backroads Country Chili Mix take to make?
About 2 hours of cooking, plus at least 4 hours to soak the beans ahead of time.

How much does Michigan Backroads Country Chili Mix make?
Serves about 10, in 8 oz. servings.

Is Michigan Backroads Country Chili Mix gluten free?
Yes, the mix is labeled gluten free.

What's in Michigan Backroads Country Chili Mix?
Red kidney bean, pink bean, cranberry bean, bell pepper, onion, paprika, coriander, cumin, celery, garlic, chile pepper, oregano, bay leaf, cayenne.

Do I need to soak the beans?
Yes. Soak the beans at least 4 hours (overnight is best), then boil and simmer them before adding to the chili. Fully cooking red kidney beans matters, so don't skip it.

How spicy is it?
Mild. For an even milder pot, pull out one or both of the whole chile peppers before simmering.