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Savory Hearty Venison Chili Recipe with Black Beans and Dark Chocolate for Cozy Dinners

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A rich and comforting venison chili featuring black beans and a hint of dark chocolate, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground venison
  • 1 can (15 oz/425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240ml) beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 square (about 0.5 oz/15g) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, or sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves. Drain and rinse the black beans. Open canned tomatoes and broth.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground venison, break apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toast spices with meat for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of broth if dry.
  6. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in diced tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
  7. Bring chili to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover with lid slightly ajar, and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add broth or water if too thick.
  8. Stir in black beans and dark chocolate square. Simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, stirring gently.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or chili powder. Balance acidity with a teaspoon of sugar or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or sliced jalapeños as desired.

Notes

Do not overcook venison to keep it tender. Toast spices with meat to enhance flavor. Use dark chocolate sparingly to avoid overpowering. Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and metallic taste. Simmer low and slow for best flavor. If chili thickens too much when reheating, add broth or water to loosen.

Nutrition

Keywords: venison chili, black beans, dark chocolate, hearty chili, cozy dinner, game meat recipe, easy chili recipe

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/savory-hearty-venison-chili-recipe-with-black-beans-and-dark-chocolate-for-cozy-dinners/