One-Pot Cozy Chocolate Chili (Printable)

A cozy one-pot chili blending ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and cocoa nibs for a flavorful meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based mince)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)

→ Beans & Tomatoes

06 - 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
09 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
16 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
17 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Chocolate Twist

18 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
19 - 2 tablespoons cocoa nibs

→ Liquids

20 - 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth

→ Garnishes (optional)

21 - Chopped fresh cilantro
22 - Sour cream or plain yogurt
23 - Shredded cheddar cheese
24 - Sliced green onions

# How To Make It:

01 - 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 necessary.
02 - Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño, cooking an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Incorporate chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant.
04 - Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute while stirring to enhance flavor.
05 - Add diced tomatoes with their juice, drained kidney and black beans, unsweetened cocoa powder, and broth. Mix thoroughly to combine.
06 - Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
07 - Stir in cocoa nibs and continue to simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
08 - Serve hot, garnished as preferred with cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and green onions.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Comforting mix of beef and beans
  • Unique chocolate twist with cocoa nibs
02 -
  • For a vegetarian version, use plant-based mince and vegetable broth
  • Cocoa nibs add a subtle crunch and deep chocolate flavor
03 -
  • Adjust chili powder and jalapeño for your preferred heat level
  • Drain excess fat from beef for a leaner chili
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