This Chocolate Chili is a yummy twist on the classic dish! It combines rich chocolate with spicy chili flavors, making it warm and comforting. Perfect for cozy nights!
You might be surprised by how great chocolate and chili pair together. I love serving this with some cornbread on the side. Who doesn’t enjoy a little sweet with their spicy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the chili. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work well. They still give great flavor while being lighter or suitable for vegetarian diets.
Chili Powder: This is where the warmth comes from! If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount or use a mild chili powder. Alternatively, smoked paprika adds a unique flavor and can replace part of the chili powder.
Dark Chocolate: It gives the chili a rich depth. I recommend using 70% cocoa or higher for the best results. If you want a milder flavor, you can use semi-sweet chocolate instead, but it will be less intense.
Broth: Beef broth enhances the meat’s flavor, but vegetable broth is a great substitution for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just make sure it’s low-sodium to control the saltiness.
How Can I Make Sure My Chili is Packed with Flavor?
To ensure your chili is bursting with flavor, focus on properly layering ingredients. Start by sautéing your onions until they’re soft — don’t rush this part! Then, cook your spices in with the meat to bloom their flavors.
- Cook onions in olive oil for about 5 minutes until soft.
- After adding garlic, let it cook briefly to avoid burning.
- Bloom your spices with the meat for 1-2 minutes to bring out their full depth.
Lastly, let your chili simmer! The longer it cooks, the more the flavors combine. Enjoy your chocolatey, spicy creation!
Chocolate Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 (14 oz / 400g) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz / 170g) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ounce (about 30g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnishes: sliced fresh chili peppers, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chocolate Chili takes about 15 minutes for prep and 40 minutes for cooking, making a total of around 55 minutes. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it until it’s softened and translucent (around 5 minutes). Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until you smell its delicious aroma!
2. Cook the Ground Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or your meat substitute) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You want to ensure it’s nice and brown for maximum flavor.
3. Toast the Spices:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes. This step is key as it deepens the flavors of the spices!
4. Add the Base Ingredients:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and Worcestershire sauce until everything is combined. This mixture is going to provide a robust flavor base for your chili!
5. Simmer:
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld together while it thickens.
6. Incorporate the Chocolate:
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped dark chocolate until it melts and becomes fully incorporated. This is what truly sets your chili apart, giving it a rich and smooth finish!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Don’t forget to taste your chili before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or any additional spices according to your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chocolate Chili hot, garnished with fresh sliced chili peppers and chopped green onions for a bit of brightness and crunch. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this unique dish!
Chocolate Chili is a delightful combination of spicy and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just cook them thoroughly before adding the spices!
What Should I Do If My Chili Is Too Spicy?
If your chili turns out spicier than you’d like, you can add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to balance the heat. Alternatively, serving it with sour cream or yogurt can also help tone down the spice.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chocolate Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last in the Fridge?
Leftover Chocolate Chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s in an airtight container for the best preservation of flavor and freshness!
