Pin It 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 been a family favorite on chilly evenings especially when you want something rich and satisfying but easy to make.
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.
Pin It This chili brings the whole family together especially on cold nights with laughter and good food.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 340, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 26 g per serving
Pin It 
Serve this chili with fresh cornbread or over steamed rice for a complete hearty meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the role of cocoa nibs in this chili?
Cocoa nibs add a subtle crunch and deepen the chili's flavor with a rich, slightly bitter chocolate note that enhances the overall taste.
- → Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based mince and use vegetable broth for a flavorful vegetarian version.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of jalapeño and chili powder to increase or reduce heat according to your preference.
- → What garnishes work well with this dish?
Chopped cilantro, sour cream or plain yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions complement the chili wonderfully.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free ingredients are used. Check broth and canned goods to ensure no hidden gluten.
- → What cooking tools are recommended?
A large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board, and can opener are helpful for preparation.