Venison and Chickpea Chili Recipe

12. Venison and Chickpea Chili: A Bowl of Comfort and Creativity

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a steaming bowl of chili, especially when it’s made with wholesome ingredients that the whole family can enjoy. This Venison and Chickpea Chili is not only a healthier alternative but also a comforting delight perfect for cozy gatherings. The unique combination of tender venison and the delightful bite of chickpeas creates a texture and richness that’s simply irresistible. Whether cooking for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this chili brings a touch of creativity to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground venison
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground venison to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a lemon wedge, if desired.

Helpful Tips:

• Make it milder: Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your family’s taste.
• Extra veggies: Add other veggies like zucchini or corn for more fiber and flavor.
• Quick prep: Use pre-chopped frozen onions and pre-minced garlic to save time.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Venison alternative: Substitute with lean ground beef or turkey.
• Chickpea substitute: Use black beans or kidney beans for a different texture.
• Broth substitute: Use vegetable broth for a lighter version.

Pairings:

• Serve with a side of warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty chili well.
• Pair with a glass of bold red wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Conclusion:

We hope this Venison and Chickpea Chili brings warmth and excitement to your dinner table. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Your feedback is valuable, so please leave a comment on our website. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our newsletter for more delightful recipes and follow Zynahz on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!