This bison chili is a hearty and healthy twist on a classic comfort dish! Made with tender bison meat, beans, and a mix of spices, it’s packed with flavor.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this chili—just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer. Perfect for a chilly day or game night with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bison: Ground bison is leaner than beef and has a slightly sweet flavor. If bison isn’t available, feel free to substitute with lean ground turkey or beef for a similar texture, though the flavor will be different.
Black Beans: They add a creamy texture and protein. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. You can also use canned chickpeas for a unique twist!
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich base. You can use crushed tomatoes if you want a chunkier chili, or even fresh diced tomatoes if they’re in season.
Spices: Adjust spices to your preference! If you love heat, add more cayenne or chopped jalapeños. For a milder version, skip the cayenne or use a sweet paprika instead of smoked.
How Do I Cook Bison Chili Perfectly?
Cooking bison chili perfectly is mainly about the simmering process which allows flavors to develop. Be sure to take your time here! Follow these steps for best results:
- Start with sautéing the onions until they’re soft. This builds a great flavor foundation!
- When cooking the ground bison, make sure it’s fully browned. This helps lock in the flavors and ensures a delicious chili.
- Don’t rush the simmering stage – let the chili gently bubble for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust the seasoning if needed; a little more salt or spice can make a big difference.
Bison Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: diced avocado, sour cream, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bison chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-45 minutes to cook. Total time is around 45-55 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Make sure to stir occasionally!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen should smell wonderful by now!
3. Brown the Bison:
Next, add the ground bison to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, letting it brown fully for about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out.
4. Spice It Up:
Once the bison is cooked, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling adventurous), and add salt and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to really toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together well until fully combined.
6. Simmer for Flavors:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully!
7. Adjust and Serve:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once satisfied, ladle the hot chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes such as diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful bison chili!
Can I Substitute Ground Bison with Another Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ground bison, you can substitute it with lean ground beef or turkey. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor profile slightly. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based ground meat or cooking lentils instead.
How Do I Make This Gluten-Free?
This bison chili is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the canned ingredients (like tomato sauce and beans) do not contain any gluten. Always check the labels to be safe!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Definitely! Bison chili freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s a Great Way to Serve Leftovers?
Leftover bison chili is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or even baked potatoes. For a fun twist, consider it as a filling for burritos or tacos!
