Save to Pinterest 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 cozy chocolate chili quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavor and easy prep.
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 to Pinterest This recipe has brought our family together on many chilly evenings and never fails to warm both heart and home.
Notes
Cocoa nibs add a subtle crunch and deep chocolate flavor—don't skip! Pairs well with cornbread or over steamed rice.
Required Tools
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 check broth and canned goods for hidden gluten. Contains legumes (beans). If using plant-based mince check for soy or other allergens.
Save to Pinterest This chili is the perfect blend of chocolate and spice, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the chili flavor unique?
The addition of cocoa powder and cocoa nibs introduces a subtle chocolate note that deepens the chili's rich, warming flavor without overpowering.
- → Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based mince and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian while maintaining robust flavors.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Control heat by adding or omitting the jalapeño and adjusting the amount of chili powder used according to your preference.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
This chili pairs well with cornbread or steamed rice and can be topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar, or fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
- → How long does the cooking process take?
The cooking involves about 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of simmering, totaling roughly 1 hour for a rich, well-developed taste.