Save A rich, warming chili featuring ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a touch of cocoa and cocoa nibs for deep, comforting flavor—perfect for a cozy night in.
This chili has become a family favorite on cold nights and always brings comfort and smiles around the table.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based mince)
- Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 red bell pepper, diced, 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
- Beans & Tomatoes: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed, 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed, 1 can (28 oz/800 g) diced tomatoes (with juice), 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp ground cinnamon, ½ tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp salt (more to taste), ¼ tsp ground black pepper, Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Chocolate Twist: 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tbsp cocoa nibs
- Liquids: 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
- Garnishes (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro, Sour cream or plain yogurt, Shredded cheddar cheese, Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2:
- Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft. Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook for 2–3 minutes more.
- Step 3:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring.
- Step 5:
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), drained beans, cocoa powder, and broth. Mix well.
- Step 6:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7:
- Stir in cocoa nibs and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 8:
- Serve hot, topped with desired garnishes.
Save This chili always sparks great conversation and warmth shared among family, making chilly evenings so much better.
Notes
Adjust chili powder and jalapeño peppers to your preferred spice level. Serve with cornbread or over steamed rice for the best experience.
Tools Needed
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, knife and cutting board, can opener
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using cheese or sour cream for garnish. Naturally gluten-free but check broth and canned goods for hidden gluten. Contains legumes from beans. If using plant-based mince, check for soy or other allergens.
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This chocolate chili recipe is the perfect blend of hearty and unique, sure to become your new comfort food favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does the cocoa add to the chili?
Cocoa powder and nibs bring a subtle chocolate richness and slight bitterness that deepen the overall flavor without making it sweet.
- → Can I use ground turkey or plant-based mince instead of beef?
Yes, both options work well and create a lighter or vegetarian-friendly chili while maintaining great texture and flavor.
- → How spicy is this chili and can I adjust the heat?
It has mild to medium heat from chili powder and optional jalapeño. Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the jalapeño and cayenne.
- → What garnishes pair best with this dish?
Fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions complement the chili’s rich flavors with freshness and creaminess.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, but always check broth and canned goods labels to ensure no hidden gluten.