Chocolate Chili is a surprising twist on the classic dish! It combines ground meat, beans, and a hint of chocolate for a rich, bold flavor that warms you up.
Trust me, the chocolate makes it taste amazing! It’s my secret ingredient when I want to impress my friends. Plus, it’s perfect for chilly nights in! 🍫🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing, but you can easily substitute it with vegetable or canola oil. If you want a unique flavor, try avocado oil instead!
Ground Beef/Turkey: If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works well. For vegetarians, feel free to use lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a hearty texture.
Beans: Kidney beans add a nice color and texture, but you can swap them with black beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand. Both will still taste fantastic!
Dark Chocolate: I recommend using chocolate that’s at least 70% cocoa for best flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder can be used if you’re out of chocolate bars; use about 3 tablespoons.
How Do I Get My Chili to Have the Right Consistency?
The consistency of your chili is key for a satisfying dish. To get it just right, make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time. If you like it thicker, let it simmer longer; if it’s too thick, add a little more broth or water.
- As it simmers, stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Use a wooden spoon to break up any lumps for an even texture.
- If it still seems too thin, mash some of the beans against the pot to thicken it naturally.
With these tips, you’ll have a perfect chili that’s rich, comforting, and bursting with flavors. Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🍵✨
How to Make Delicious Chocolate Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 to 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 oz (30g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as microgreens or cilantro)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouthwatering Chocolate Chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, bringing your total to about 50 minutes. It’s quick and simple to prepare, and you’ll end up with a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it’s softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey) to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned, about 7-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.
3. Add the Veggies and Beans:
Next, stir in the diced carrot and cook for about 3 minutes to begin softening. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, drained kidney beans, and broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
4. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Season the chili with 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and the cayenne pepper (start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste). Add salt and black pepper to your preference. Mix well to combine all the delicious spices.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the carrots are tender. Enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen!
6. Add the Secret Ingredient:
Once it’s cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate. Mix until the chocolate has melted and is fully incorporated into the chili. This is where the magic happens!
7. Final Taste Check:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want a bit more salt or spice, so trust your taste buds!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chocolate chili hot, garnished with fresh herbs or microgreens for a pop of color. Enjoy your warm, flavorful bowl of chili!
This rich and hearty chili has a deep flavor profile thanks to the dark chocolate, adding a subtle bittersweet complexity that balances the spices and savory meat. It’s comfort food at its finest! Enjoy! 🍲✨
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or textured vegetable protein (TVP) in place of the ground beef or turkey. You can also add more beans or vegetables for a hearty texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Dark Chocolate?
If you don’t have dark chocolate, you can substitute it with unsweetened cocoa powder. Use about 3 tablespoons and adjust the sweetness to your taste if necessary, as cocoa powder will be less sweet than chocolate.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To adjust the spice level, start with 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and add more if desired. You can also add diced jalapeños or more chili powder for extra heat, depending on your preference!
How to Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
