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–+ servings

Smoky Chocolate Chili

This chili combines ground meat and beans simmered with toasted spices, dark chocolate, and smoked paprika, creating a rich and layered stew. The slow simmer develops a thick sauce with a smoky, spicy flavor profile and a comforting, hearty texture.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: 350kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey or other ground meat
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 ounce dark chocolate bittersweet, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz, with juice
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon cumin ground
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. When shimmering, add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, until they smell sweet and look glossy.
  • Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute, stirring constantly; it should become fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Pour in the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes, until it turns a rich color and releases some fat.
  • Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cumin, coating the meat and onions evenly. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, causing the mixture to smell warm and spicy.
  • Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally and watching for bubbling.
  • Stir in the cooked beans and chopped dark chocolate, allowing the chocolate to melt fully and integrate into the sauce, adding depth and richness.
  • Uncover and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the chili thicken and develop a smoky, spicy aroma that fills the kitchen.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, smoothing out flavors and balancing the smoky heat.
  • Once the chili is thick and flavorful, ladle it into bowls and serve hot, garnished with your favorites like chopped cilantro or shredded cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 580mg | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 4mg