Name: Venison Chili with Dark Chocolate
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 8-10
Cuisine: American Wild Game
Ingredients: 3 lbs ground venison; 1 lb ground pork (for fat content); 2 large onions, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons chili powder; 2 tablespoons cumin; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2 teaspoons oregano; 1 teaspoon chipotle powder; 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 oz dark chocolate (70-85% cacao); 2 tablespoons masa harina; Salt and pepper to taste; Toppings: cheese, sour cream, green onions

1Setup & Prepare

About This Recipe

This hearty slow-simmered chili transforms ground venison into a rich, complex stew with deep chocolate undertones and warming spices. The long cooking time melds flavors while creating tender, satisfying comfort food perfect for feeding a crowd.

Cultural Context

This recipe combines the working-class tradition of Texas chili with the Aztec practice of adding chocolate to spiced dishes. The technique represents the fusion of Mexican indigenous cooking with American frontier pragmatism, creating a dish that transforms lean venison into a rich, satisfying meal that feeds large groups economically.

3Cooking Instructions

Meat Browning: Brown ground venison and pork in large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking up clumps. Cook until no pink remains.
Aromatics: Add onions and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Spice Blooming: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and chipotle powder. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to release oils.
Liquid Addition: Add tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
Long Cooking: Simmer partially covered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add water if needed to prevent sticking.
Chocolate Addition: Stir in chopped chocolate during final 15 minutes of cooking.
Thickening: Mix masa harina with small amount of warm liquid, then stir into chili. Simmer 10 minutes more.
Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed.

4Chef's Notes & Pairings

Chef's Notes

The pork fat is essential for proper texture with lean venison
Don't skip the long simmer - it develops complex flavors
Chocolate adds depth without sweetness when used in small amounts

Wine Pairing

A bold Zinfandel or spicy beer provides the right intensity to match the chili's robust flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 425 calories, 35g protein, 22g fat, 18g carbohydrates. High protein, high fiber comfort food.

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