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12) Slow-Simmered Beef Chili with Cocoa

Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder unsweetened
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheddar sour cream, chopped green onions

Method
 

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat; brown the ground beef, breaking it up, 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and spices, cooking 1 minute to bloom flavors.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, beans, cocoa powder, and brown sugar; bring to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat low and gently simmer, uncovered, 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until flavors meld and chili thickens.
  5. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice. Serve with toppings.