Smoky Venison Chili Recipe

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering around the dinner table with loved ones on a crisp evening, especially when you’re serving a hearty bowl of Smoky Venison Chili. This recipe holds the essence of family, creativity, and the warmth of shared meals. The tender venison, infused with smoky spices, creates an unforgettable dish that’s perfect for special family occasions and chilly fall nights. Get ready to delight your senses and soul with this memorable dish!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground venison
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Smoked paprika (for garnish)
• Crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground venison and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Incorporate the diced red and yellow bell peppers, and cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers soften slightly.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and sliced chipotle peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving.
7. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the rich, smoky chili.

Helpful Tips & Variations

• For beginners: You can use ground beef or turkey if venison is not available.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the venison with finely chopped mushrooms or a meat substitute for a hearty vegetarian chili.
• If you like it spicier, add an extra chipotle pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• This chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Pairings

This Smoky Venison Chili pairs wonderfully with a side of cornbread, topped with honey butter, or a refreshing coleslaw. For drinks, try a robust red wine or a cold, dark beer to complement the rich, smoky flavors.

Cooking and sharing this Smoky Venison Chili is more than just making a meal—it’s creating memories and celebrating togetherness. We’d love to see how your dishes turn out! Share your creations on social media using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us at Zynahz Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website Zynahz. Subscribe to our newsletter for more recipes and follow us for updates. Happy cooking!