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 chili became a family favorite during chilly evenings when we crave something hearty and a little different with the chocolate twist.
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 34 minutes, until soft. Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook for 23 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 Making this chili always brings the family together especially when we share it with freshly baked cornbread or over steaming 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
Nutritional Information
Calories 340, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 26 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest 
This chili is a perfect blend of savory and sweet with the cocoa element adding depth to traditional flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients give the chili its unique flavor?
The combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon, along with cocoa powder and cocoa nibs, creates a rich, deep flavor profile.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute ground beef with plant-based mince and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- → How long does the chili need to simmer?
The chili should simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to develop flavors, then an additional 5 minutes after stirring in the cocoa nibs.
- → What toppings complement this chili?
Chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream or plain yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions add brightness and creaminess.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, but check broths and canned goods for hidden gluten to ensure safety.