Cajun Chili

13 to 16 ounces andouille sausage
1 pound coarsely ground beef or turkey
1⁄2 pound beef hot links, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
2 cups chopped sweet onion
1⁄2 cup chopped celery
6 cups canned or cooked red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
12-ounces beer
1 large bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt

Accompaniments:
Monterey Jack cheese, grated
Sour cream
Chopped sweet onions
Crushed tortilla chips
Fresh lime wedges

Squeeze sausage from casing and cook sausage and ground beef or turkey in a large heavy skillet until brown. Drain pan drippings and add hot links, garlic, chili powder and cumin. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes or until fragrant.

Combine all vegetables, beans, tomatoes, beer and seasonings in a 6 quart or larger slow cooker. Mix thoroughly. With a slotted spoon, transfer sausage mixture to the slow cooker, mix well. Cover and set on HIGH and cook for 5 to 6 hours.

Remove the cover for the last hour.

Remove bay leaf. Serve hot with choice of accompaniments.

Note: Best if made one day ahead so flavors will blend.

Makes 14 cups
Source: National Hot Dog and Sausage Council