Description
This Smoky Beef and Bean Chili with Cocoa is a hearty and flavorful chili perfect for a chilly evening. The addition of cocoa powder adds a depth of flavor that elevates this classic dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cocoa powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with your favorite chili toppings.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- If you prefer a smoother chili, you can partially blend some of the chili after it has simmered.
- This chili can be made ahead of time and reheated. It often tastes even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
