Picture this: a chilly evening, the aroma of a delicious, hearty meal wafting through the kitchen, and the sound of laughter filling the air. That’s the magic of our Kid-Friendly Venison Chili, a perfect blend of tender venison, colorful veggies, and mild, rich sauce that’s sure to win over even the pickiest eaters. This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s a celebration of family, creativity, and the joy of sharing meals together. With each spoonful, you’ll create memories and traditions that last a lifetime. Let’s dive into this heartwarming culinary adventure!
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground venison
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ground venison to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the venison is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper, carrots, and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the chili hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- If your kids prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili powder or substitute with a milder seasoning blend.
- For an extra boost of nutrition, add a handful of chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey if venison is not available.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Pairings
- Serve this hearty chili with a side of warm, crusty bread or fluffy cornbread.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors wonderfully.
- For a fun twist, offer a selection of toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro.
We hope you and your family enjoy this delightful Kid-Friendly Venison Chili! Don’t forget to share your creations with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging Zynahz on Instagram. We love seeing your unique touches and hearing your feedback. Visit us at Zynahz to leave a review and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates. Follow us on social media for more inspiring recipes and family moments. Happy cooking!