This Chocolate Chili is a surprising twist on a classic dish. It brings together the rich taste of chocolate and the warmth of chili, making it both tasty and unique!
Who knew that chocolate could make chili even better? I love how the chocolate adds a smooth depth of flavor. Serve it with some crusty bread for a fun dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can choose ground turkey for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Chili Powder: This is essential for flavor. If you want to adjust the heat, try using a mild chili powder or a mix of paprika and cayenne.
Dark Chocolate: I recommend at least 70% cocoa for depth of flavor. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan chocolate to keep things plant-based.
Kidney Beans: Any beans like black beans or pinto beans can work well too. Just make sure to rinse them to reduce sodium.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from Your Spices?
To bring out the best in your spices, always toast them for a minute before adding liquids. This step helps release their essential oils, which is key for flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- After browning the meat, sprinkle in your spices while the pan is still hot.
- Stir the spices for about a minute until you can smell them—this will wake them up!
This small step can make a big difference in how your chili tastes. Enjoy creating a delicious pot of chocolate chili!
Chocolate Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
- Additional chopped dark chocolate or chocolate shavings (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 to 40 minutes to cook, making a total of about 1 hour. Just enough time to enjoy the wonderful smell of chili cooking in your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about 5 minutes or until everything is soft and fragrant. This is where the flavor starts!
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. You want to ensure that there’s no pink left!
3. Add the Spices:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and ground cinnamon. Let it cook for another minute to toast the spices. This step enhances their flavors beautifully!
4. Combine with Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and the cup of broth. Stir everything together well to mix all the ingredients. It should have a lovely, chunky consistency.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Then, add the drained kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the chili cook gently for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help all the flavors meld together.
6. Stir in the Chocolate:
Just before you’re ready to serve, take the chopped dark chocolate and stir it into the chili until melted and well mixed. Do a quick taste test and add salt and pepper as needed!
7. Serve Up & Enjoy:
Ladle your delicious chocolate chili into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and sprinkle on some extra chopped dark chocolate or chocolate shavings for that special touch!
8. Enjoy the Comfort!
Serve hot and relish the rich, comforting flavors of this unique chocolate chili! It’s a delightful surprise that’ll impress everyone.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as you would with beef.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also use a mild chili powder instead of a regular one for less heat.
Can I Make This Chili Vegan?
Yes, simply replace the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, use vegetable broth, and skip the sour cream or substitute it with a vegan alternative.
How Long Will Leftover Chocolate Chili Last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
