Imagine a chilly evening, where the warmth of a cozy kitchen beckons you in. There’s something magical about a pot simmering on the stove, infusing the air with rich, mouthwatering aromas. Our Chocolate Venison Chili is a delightful twist on the classic, combining tender chunks of venison with a sumptuous dark chocolate sauce for a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. It’s perfect for family gatherings, where each spoonful invites smiles and conversation. This unique recipe is sure to spark creativity and bring everyone together over a hearty meal.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 lbs venison, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate, grated (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the venison and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the venison and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Return the venison to the pot and pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the kidney beans and cocoa powder, stirring well to combine. Simmer for another 30 minutes, until the venison is tender.
- Stir in the grated dark chocolate until melted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of grated chocolate.
Helpful Tips
For an even deeper flavor, prepare the chili a day in advance and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator, reheating it just before serving. If you’re new to cooking venison, you can substitute with beef or lamb. Serve this chili with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy white rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the sense of satisfaction from creating a dish that surprises and delights. Chocolate Venison Chili is sure to become a treasured favorite, perfect for those special family dinners or cozy nights in. Don’t forget to share your masterpieces with us using #ZynahzRecipes or by tagging Zynahz on Instagram. We love seeing your culinary creations!
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