Oktoberfest Chili

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 jalapeño chile peppers , diced
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 2 cans red beans , 15 ounce
• 2 cans petite diced tomatoes , 15 ounce
• 2 cans tomato sauce , 15 ounce
• 1 can crushed tomatoes , 28 ounce
• 2 cans tomato juice , 12 fluid ounce
• 2 cups sauerkraut , drained
• 1 can or bottle German-style beer , 12 fluid ounce
• 0.25 cups 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
• 2.5 ounces milk chocolate candy

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook and stir bratwurst in 1 tablespoon bacon drippings in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and no longer pink inside, about 15 minutes. Drain excess grease.

2. 2

   Heat remaining 1 tablespoon bacon drippings in a large, deep pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, jalapeños, and garlic; cook and stir until onion is translucent, about 8 minutes. Add bratwurst to the pot; stir in red beans, petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato juice, sauerkraut, beer, chili powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, allspice, and oregano.

3. 3

   Bring chili mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer; stir in milk chocolate until melted and dissolved. Simmer for 5 hours, stirring occasionally.