Introduction

Add a delicious twist to your chili with a touch of cocoa! This chili recipe combines the hearty flavors of traditional chili with the rich depth of cocoa, creating a unique and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this cocoa-infused chili is sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps to make a flavorful and satisfying chili that’s anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat

  • Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

  • Add Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add Bell Pepper: Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

3. Incorporate the Cocoa and Spices

  • Stir in Cocoa Powder: Add the cocoa powder, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
  • Cook the Spices: Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavors.

4. Add Tomatoes and Beans

  • Mix in Tomatoes and Beans: Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
  • Add Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Chili

  • Cook: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors will meld together and the chili will thicken.

6. Adjust and Serve

  • Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.

Tips for Perfect Chili with Cocoa

  • Use High-Quality Cocoa: For the best flavor, use unsweetened cocoa powder or high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder to suit your taste.
  • Make Ahead: This chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This chili recipe with cocoa offers a rich and unique twist on a classic dish. The addition of cocoa powder adds depth and complexity, making this chili a standout choice for any meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this cocoa-infused chili is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty, delicious chili and savor the comforting flavors with every bite!