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 chilly evenings and always brings everyone together at the table.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based mince
- Yellow onion: 1 large, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1, diced
- Jalapeño pepper: 1, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- Kidney beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz/425 g), drained and rinsed
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz/800 g) with juice
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Chili powder: 2 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: ½ tsp
- Dried oregano: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp (more to taste)
- Ground black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Cayenne pepper: Pinch (optional)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: 2 tbsp
- Cocoa nibs: 2 tbsp
- Low-sodium broth: 1 cup (240 ml) beef or vegetable
- 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 We often enjoy this chili with cornbread while catching up with family, making it a cherished meal.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 340 per serving, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 26 g
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using cheese or sour cream for garnish; naturally gluten-free; contains legumes from beans; plant-based mince may contain soy or other allergens
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board, can opener
Save 
This chili is as delightful as it sounds and perfect for warming you up on a cold evening.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What gives this chili its unique flavor?
The addition of unsweetened cocoa powder and cocoa nibs creates a rich, deep chocolate undertone that complements the spices and beans.
- → Can I use ground turkey or plant-based alternatives?
Yes, ground turkey or plant-based mince can be substituted to suit dietary preferences while maintaining hearty texture.
- → How spicy is this chili and can I adjust it?
The level of heat depends on the jalapeño and chili powder; you can reduce or omit these for a milder version.
- → What are some good side pairings?
This chili goes well with cornbread or steamed rice to balance its robust flavors.
- → How should cocoa nibs be used in this dish?
Cocoa nibs are stirred in during the last 5 minutes of simmering to add subtle crunch and enhance chocolate notes without overpowering.