Print

Flavorful Chili with Cocoa Powder and Cinnamon

flavorful chili with cocoa powder and cinnamon - featured image
Print Recipe

A rich and smoky chili infused with cocoa powder and cinnamon, delivering a unique and comforting flavor perfect for cozy nights and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste (start with 1 tsp)
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat (about 3-4 minutes) until shimmering but not smoking.
  2. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and diced red bell pepper; cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
  4. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if excessive, but keep a little for flavor.
  5. Mix in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cocoa powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir well to coat evenly.
  6. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes more, stirring constantly to caramelize.
  7. Pour in canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth or water if too thick.
  9. About 10 minutes before finishing, add the rinsed kidney beans to warm through.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if tomatoes are too acidic.
  11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley.

Notes

For extra depth, make chili a day ahead and refrigerate overnight. Flavors deepen and reheating is easy. For vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans. Adjust heat with cayenne, jalapeños, or hot sauce. Simmer uncovered to thicken naturally. Stir cocoa powder and cinnamon with spices for even flavor distribution.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili, cocoa powder, cinnamon, ground beef, comfort food, easy chili recipe, hearty stew, family dinner

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/flavorful-chili-with-cocoa-powder-and-cinnamon-easy-homemade-recipe/