This bison chili is a hearty and tasty dish that’s perfect for chilly days! Made with ground bison, beans, and all the right spices, it warms you from the inside out.
Plus, it feels great to serve something a little different from the usual chili! I love to top mine with cheese and sour cream—it adds just the right touch of creaminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Bison: Bison is leaner than beef, giving your chili a rich flavor with less fat. If you can’t find it, ground turkey or chicken can work as substitutes, though they will have a different taste and texture.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice base flavor. You can substitute it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if needed. I prefer olive oil because it complements the spices perfectly!
Black Beans: These add protein and a lovely texture. Feel free to swap them for kidney beans or pinto beans. Canned beans save time, but dry beans can be used if you soak and cook them beforehand.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned variety is easy and convenient, but you can also use fresh tomatoes if they are in season. Just peel and chop them up! They will bring a fresh taste to your chili.
Chili Powder: This is key for the chili flavor. If you want a bit more kick, add cayenne pepper or use a spicier chili powder blend. I usually stick with a mild chili powder for a balanced taste.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Out of My Chili?
To take your bison chili from good to great, focus on layering flavors as you cook. Here’s how:
- Start by cooking your onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. This creates a delicious base.
- When browning the bison, let it sear without stirring too much initially. This adds depth to the flavor.
- Don’t rush the simmering step! Allowing the chili to cook slowly melds the spices and enhances the overall taste.
- Taste your chili before serving. Sometimes, a little extra salt or spice can elevate the dish!
Enjoy your cooking, and don’t be afraid to make it your own with different spices or garnishes!
Bison Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, diced red onions, diced avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bison chili will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to cook, giving you a total of approximately 50 minutes to enjoy a fantastic bowl of flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This will help to flavor your chili right from the start!
2. Cooking the Onions:
Add the diced onion to the pot. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. This builds a tasty foundation for your chili.
3. Adding Garlic:
Next, drop in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You’ll start to smell that wonderful garlic aroma—don’t let it burn!
4. Browning the Bison:
Now, add the ground bison. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, browning it through about 5-7 minutes. This is where the flavor really starts to develop!
5. Seasoning It Up:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well coated with those spices to maximize flavor.
6. Adding the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together nicely until it’s well mixed.
7. Letting It Simmer:
Bring your chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally—this is when all the yummy flavors meld together!
8. Tasting and Adjusting:
Before serving, taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning if necessary—you might want a little more salt or spice!
9. Serving it Up:
Serve the chili hot in bowls. Top it with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, red onions, and diced avocado for a fresh touch.
10. Enjoyment:
Dig in and savor your hearty bison chili! It goes perfectly with tortilla chips for dipping or scooping.
Can I Substitute Ground Bison with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean beef are great substitutes if you can’t find bison. Keep in mind that different meats may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices. You can also top the chili with hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This chili stores well. Just let it cool down and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Bison Chili?
Bison chili is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. You can also serve it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chili.
