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    Home » Type » Soups

    Smoky Chili Soup

    Published: Jan 24, 2011 · Modified: Apr 15, 2022 by Faith · This post may contain affiliate links · 61 Comments

    Even though I’m not much of a football fan (ok, who am I kidding…the only game I watch all year is the Superbowl, and that’s only for the commercials and the halftime show), it would just feel wrong to let the Superbowl come and go without making some kind of chili in its honor.  This chili is thicker than your average soup but thinner than your average chili, which in my opinion makes is perfect for topping with crumbled corn bread to soak up all the juices (but I have to admit, it’s also great for dipping things like corn chips into). 

    I first saw this recipe in Cooking Light’s January 2009 issue and the thing that drew me in was the use of tomatillos in the original recipe.  On the day that I was shopping for the ingredients, the market didn’t have any tomatillos on hand so I ended up improvising with tomatillo salsa, which still worked fantastically.  There were a few other changes I made to the recipe as well; the original version used three different kinds of pork:  ground pork, boneless pork shoulder, and smoked ham hock.  Since Mike and I don’t eat pork, I used ground beef, boneless beef roast, and turkey bacon instead.  (And yeah, with three different kinds of meat this is “man food” if I’ve ever seen it…but don’t worry ladies, you’ll like it too!)  If you’re looking for a new chili recipe to try, I definitely recommend this!

    Be sure not to skip the garnishes, they really make this dish!

    Smoky Chili Soup (Inspired by Cooking Light’s recipe for Smoky Slow Cooker Chili from the January 2009 issue)  

    (Yield:  8-10 servings)

    2 TB olive oil

    4 slices turkey bacon, thinly sliced

    1 lb lean ground beef

    1 lb boneless beef roast (I like to use sirloin), trimmed of fat and cubed into 1-inch pieces

    2 medium-large onions, diced

    4 large cloves garlic, minced

    2 TB chili powder

    1 TB cumin

    2 teaspoon dried oregano

    ½ teaspoon black pepper

    2 bay leaves

    1 teaspoon sugar

    2 c lager-style beer (such as Corona)

    1 beef bouillon cube

    1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)

    1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

    1 c tomatillo salsa (I used Frontera’s Gourmet Mexican Salsa)

    1 c water

    2 medium green peppers, diced

    2 (15 oz) cans pinto beans (salt-free if possible), rinsed and drained

    Queso fresco, crumbed (for garnish)

    Fresh scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

    Fresh lime wedges (to squeeze on top) – I forgot these when I took the pictures, but don’t worry, I remembered them in time for serving!  :)

    In a 5-quart pot with a lid, heat oil over medium-high heat; add the turkey bacon and sauté until crispy (about 5 minutes).  Use a slotted spoon to remove turkey bacon; set aside.  To the same pot, add ground beef; turn heat up to high and cook until browned.  Use a slotted spoon to remove browned meat.  To the same pot, add beef cubes and brown on all sides (about 2 minutes per side).  Add turkey bacon and browned ground beef back to the pot; add onions and sauté until starting to soften (about 5-7 minutes).  Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, pepper, bay leaves, and sugar and sauté another 1-2 minutes, until everything is fragrant. 

    Add beer and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom and sides of the pan; cook a few minutes until lager is reduced by about half.  Add bouillon cube, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomatillo salsa, and water; bring up to a boil, then cover the pot, turn heat down, and simmer 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add green pepper, cover the pot, and cook another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.  Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.

    Serve garnished with queso fresco, thinly sliced scallions, and lime wedges to squeeze on top.

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    Reader Interactions

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Bizzy says

      January 31, 2011 at 1:43 pm

      I was thinking, last night, how chili soup is better than chili and you sent me a new soup to try.

      Reply
    2. Mark says

      January 29, 2011 at 7:42 pm

      Wow. The photos are making my mouth water. I love the flavors.

      Reply
    3. chriesi says

      January 28, 2011 at 1:16 am

      Uups, I meant flavourful. Sorry

      Reply
    4. chriesi says

      January 28, 2011 at 1:14 am

      What a rich and flavour soup!

      Reply
    5. Susan says

      January 27, 2011 at 6:23 pm

      I'm here via Valerie's post on your chili. This sounds like a wonderful dish!

      Reply
    6. Barbara Bakes says

      January 27, 2011 at 4:05 pm

      I've never seen a recipe with tomatillos in it. It looks fabulous!

      Reply
    7. Mia says

      January 27, 2011 at 2:09 pm

      Im not muc of a football fan either , and i really am not :-)
      but i really love the food around and im ready to sit thru the game , if for this Chili, smoky and soup together makes it all the better.

      Reply
    8. Chiara says

      January 27, 2011 at 6:00 am

      I love that recipe from Cooking Light... I especially enjoyed the smokiness of it. I don't have a slow cooker anymore so I'll definitely try your version!

      Reply
    9. Reeni says

      January 26, 2011 at 8:30 pm

      I love the sound of this smoky chili - it's packed with flavor making it super delicious! I love the flavor of tomatillos - good idea to sub in the salsa. I'm all about the toppings!

      Reply
    10. Reeni says

      January 26, 2011 at 8:30 pm

      I love the sound of this smoky chili - it\'s packed with flavor making it super delicious! I love the flavor of tomatillos - good idea to sub in the salsa. I'm all about the toppings!

      Reply
    11. Reeni says

      January 26, 2011 at 8:29 pm

      I love the sound of this smoky chili - it\'s packed with flavor making it super delicious! I love the flavor of tomatillos - good idea to sub in the salsa. I\'m all about the toppings!

      Reply
    12. Magic of Spice says

      January 26, 2011 at 7:16 pm

      Great idea with the salsa...a great version :)

      Reply
    13. grace says

      January 26, 2011 at 4:52 pm

      yes, it's true--one cannot properly enjoy a football game without consuming chili either before, during, or after (or all three). :)

      Reply
    14. Ameena says

      January 26, 2011 at 4:41 pm

      I don't know anything about sports - not even the Super Bowl! But this dish does make me suddenly want to watch it. :)

      Reply
    15. A Canadian Foodie says

      January 26, 2011 at 4:37 pm

      OK - I am doing my version inspired by your version... tonight - and will post it someday - but thank you! groceries are on the counter now.
      :)
      YUM!
      Valerie

      Reply
    16. theUngourmet says

      January 26, 2011 at 12:12 pm

      I'm with you on the football thing. I catch bits of the Superbowl and commercials and that's about it. This is a terrific chili and I love the garnishes you chose.

      Happy Wednesday!

      Reply
    17. Lucia says

      January 26, 2011 at 10:44 am

      Dear Faith,
      you made me crave for something hot and steamy as your soup.
      Outside it's so cold...

      Reply
    18. Lazaro says

      January 26, 2011 at 10:26 am

      Interesting alternative chili recipe. This chili of yours could be enjoyed year round. What a fantastic cheese queso fresco is.

      Reply
    19. nancy at good food matters says

      January 26, 2011 at 8:03 am

      There are lots of great layers of flavor in this recipe. I like meaty chunks in my chili, like the beef roast---really elevates the dish. Beer is a terrific addition, for deepening the flavor. Like you, I don't care much for football, but a well-made bowl of chili? I'm in!

      Reply
    20. Lorraine @ Not Quite Nigella says

      January 26, 2011 at 5:32 am

      This sounds amazing Faith! I love chilli and to make it smokey and into a soup can only enhance it! :)

      Reply
    21. Betty @ scrambled hen fruit says

      January 25, 2011 at 10:29 pm

      I'm always looking for new soup/chili recipes in this cold weather! And I think cornbread would definitely be a great accompaniment here- the flavors in this chili sound so good! :)

      Reply
    22. Victor @ Random Cuisine says

      January 25, 2011 at 10:23 pm

      It is hard tomatillo in our city. I just published my chili recipe. My version involves the use of chocolate.

      Sorry to ask. I was looking through the recipe. What makes your chili "smoky"?

      Reply
      • admin says

        January 26, 2011 at 9:56 am

        Victor, Lol, funny you ask that! Like I mention, I adapted this recipe from a Cooking Light recipe -- they called theirs "Smoky Slow Cooker Chili" and I kept the name (minus the slow-cooker, as I made mine on the stovetop). I think it's probably the use of smoked meat (in my recipe, turkey bacon) that gives it that name.

        Your chili sounds fantastic with chocolate! One of my favorite chilis is Cincinnati Chili -- is yours like that?

        Reply
    23. Lisa @ Thrive Style says

      January 25, 2011 at 9:05 pm

      This looks awesome! I hated chili when I was a kid, but have grown to like it, and I think I'd really prefer the consistency you described.
      And the flavor combo! Mmmmmmm.
      If I was having a super bowl party, I'd definitely make it :)

      Reply
    24. Julie M. says

      January 25, 2011 at 8:51 pm

      Yum! I LOVE chili! What a delicious recipe Faith! And you're so right, the condiments absolutely make the dish. I'm not a big pro football fan either, but with my team actually going to the big game this year I'll most likely be watching the commercials AND the game!

      Reply
    25. Jenn L @ Peas and Crayons says

      January 25, 2011 at 8:49 pm

      GORGEOUS! I'll have to try a few of your tricks on my next batch of chili.. Love the addition of beer! =)

      xoXOxo
      Jenn

      Reply
    26. Erica says

      January 25, 2011 at 8:00 pm

      I totally bookmarked! I can't wait to make this. Chili is absolutely incredible. And I agree- the fun toppings really make it a special bowl.

      Reply
    27. Priscilla - She's Cookin' says

      January 25, 2011 at 7:52 pm

      We'll be watching the Super Bowl, even if our team's not playing. I love the boisterous camaraderie , the beer, the food, the commercials, the beer, the food :) Love the tomatillo twist you put on that chili!

      Reply
    28. Anna Johnston says

      January 25, 2011 at 7:48 pm

      Ohhh, I wish there was a Superbowl here in Oz..., just so I could tuck into this tradition of chilli...., one of the best recipes Ive seen too. Love it :)

      Reply
    29. Raina says

      January 25, 2011 at 7:10 pm

      I agree chili is a must for the superbowl. I only watch the big games like the Super Bowl too. Your chili sounds incredible with the flavor from the tomatillo salsa and the three different kinds of meats. I just imagine how delicious it must be:)

      Reply
    30. Evelyne@CheapEthnicEatz says

      January 25, 2011 at 5:25 pm

      Wow that is a long list of ingredients lol. I like the beer and tomatillo salsa in there too, I like this version of yours a lot!

      Reply
    31. blackbookkitchendiaries says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:45 pm

      i am just drooling over how good this looks. thank you for sharing this:)

      Reply
    32. Nicole, RD says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:20 pm

      I want to come over for Super Bowl!! I was chilied-out after my chili contest this fall...until this recipe! Mmmmm!! The smoky flavor sounds delicious! I love thick chilis, too!

      Reply
    33. Tanantha @ I Just Love My Apron says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:49 pm

      This post hits me. I'm not a big fan of football but feel like i should do something about the football season haha. I've seen this on the magazine too but yours looks so tasty! It's almost lunch and I'm hungry....

      I should make this to honor the season too and the hubs will be so happy :D

      Reply
    34. Angie's Recipes says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:49 pm

      The soup sounds so satisfying! I need one large bowl with some rye crackers as I am watching the football now. :-))

      Reply
    35. Heather @ Get Healthy with Heather says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:44 pm

      3 kinds of meats?! You aren't messing around girl! Just bookmarked to make soon. It sounds and looks delicious. I love crumbling cornbread into my chili... The soupier the better!

      Reply
    36. Carol says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:29 pm

      This looks right up our alley, nice and hearty, and perfect for the game, but so good with this winter weather we keep getting bombarded with.

      Reply
    37. Tanvi@SinfullySpicy says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:12 pm

      I want to make chilli for a long long time..But I brood too much.I have to try this recipe with ground chicken or turkey.What a wonderful color you have got.Love this bowl of goodness on a chilly night.

      Reply
    38. Lucy says

      January 25, 2011 at 1:12 pm

      I'm not a football one but would happily become one as an excuse to make and enjoy this soup! Looks like a proper hearty chili - delicious.

      Reply
    39. Heavenly Housewife says

      January 25, 2011 at 12:41 pm

      I'm with you daaaahling, when it comes to the superbowl, I only go for the food. This soup is worth watching boring football for.
      *kisses* HH

      Reply
    40. Victoria says

      January 25, 2011 at 12:38 pm

      I don't care much for sports either, but I do love game food, including chili :) Looks fantastic!

      Reply
    41. Louanne says

      January 25, 2011 at 11:45 am

      Oh goodness, that's just a perfect bowl of chili, Faith. Would so love a warm bowl for lunch today....sigh....

      Reply
    42. Aipi says

      January 25, 2011 at 11:21 am

      Perfect dinner for these cold evenings..Loved your presentation!

      US Masala

      Reply
    43. Dana says

      January 25, 2011 at 11:13 am

      I am right there with you when it comes to football.... It's just not my thing.

      But this soup sounds totally delicious... it would make watching any game bearable!

      Reply
    44. Rich says

      January 25, 2011 at 8:34 am

      The fritos approach is classic! Serve that wonderful stuff in a bowl over a bed of fritos and you've got yourself what we in Texas like to call a frito pie - one of life's great joys ...

      Reply
    45. 5 Star Foodie says

      January 25, 2011 at 8:13 am

      Your chili soup looks fantastic, I love the smoky flavors here, and the topping with Queso fresco! We are eating chili as well, that's what we had for dinner last night :)

      Reply
    46. deana@lostpastremembered says

      January 25, 2011 at 7:45 am

      I am no fan of football and with you...I think the only thing to watch is the commercials... but I perked up when I saw smoked and chili in one line. Great recipe for chili... and boy do we need food like this with the weather we've been having...gorgeous photo too, Faith.

      Reply
    47. Michele @ Healthy Cultivations says

      January 25, 2011 at 7:44 am

      I normally make a very very simple chili, but this one looks like it's worth the effort. I need to branch out. Simple and fast isn't always better.

      Reply
    48. Joanne says

      January 25, 2011 at 6:41 am

      Honestly, I'm right there with you. I watch the superbowl for (a) the commercials, (b) the halftime show, and (c) the opportunity to make superbowl food! Chili, of course, being a staple. This sounds delicious!

      Reply
    49. Joyti says

      January 25, 2011 at 5:00 am

      I'm not a football fan. But good homemade (vegetarian) chili...now that's another story! Yours looks good...

      Reply
    50. Katerina says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:56 am

      This chili/soup looks so good and all the juices from the combination of meats must gave it a special kick.

      Reply
    51. Maria @ Scandifoodie says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:53 am

      I got to admit I'm a real chilli wimp, but this looks really good!

      Reply
    52. Priya says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:14 am

      Such a hearty soup,am drooling..

      Reply
    53. Sanjeeta kk says

      January 25, 2011 at 3:12 am

      looks delicious! would love to try with my veggies.

      Reply
    54. Rosa says

      January 25, 2011 at 2:37 am

      Sooo good looking! Really soul-uplifting.

      Cheers,

      Rosa

      Reply
    55. A Canadian Foodie says

      January 25, 2011 at 1:22 am

      I watch football exactly like you do - and this is a chili that must be cooked - clearly. Man food, it is. I know what you mean about the garnishes. They really do make a dish... the onion - I love your idea of the corn bread... a little cheese, maybe. YUM.
      Thanks for a new twist on an old fav!
      :)
      valerie

      Reply
    56. Monet says

      January 25, 2011 at 12:20 am

      I'm not a big football fan either...but I love a good bowl of chili. I'm sure that the different meats make this especially flavorful, and I love the cheese you sprinkled on top. Thank you for sharing your soup with me...I hope you have a great Tuesday...I'm already ready for the weekend :-)

      Reply
    57. lequan says

      January 24, 2011 at 11:53 pm

      the only time i watch football is during the superbowl and only for the commercials too. except i don't even watch the half time show. that's the only time hubby is allowed to roll his eyes at me. ha!

      that's interesting, i didn't know you and Mike didn't eat pork, Faith. i don't eat pork either, well very very very rarely.

      this chili looks fantastic. with all the shoveling i've been doing here, i've been craving for chili.i love your garnishes, not just there for looks ;-)

      Reply
    58. BeadedTail says

      January 24, 2011 at 11:27 pm

      That looks perfect for the Superbowl or anytime actually! Yum!

      Reply
    59. Swathi says

      January 24, 2011 at 11:24 pm

      I need that salsa tomatillo. chili looks awesome, nice for super bowl

      Reply
    60. Nourhan @ Miss Anthropist's Kitchen says

      January 24, 2011 at 10:54 pm

      Yum, that looks totally delicious!! I personally don't watch the Superbowl or any other major sports event, but I think I'd watch it if it meant getting to eat this dish ;)

      Reply

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