Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a unique and flavorful twist? Look no further than this mouthwatering Mexican Chocolate Chili recipe! Combining the rich, deep flavors of traditional chili with a hint of indulgent chocolate, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or simply looking for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening, this Mexican Chocolate Chili is guaranteed to hit the spot. Join us as we delve into the world of savory and sweet fusion and learn how to make this divine chili.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 1 lb ground round
Produce:
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes with garlic
Baking & Spices:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon salt
Liquids:
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground round over medium heat until fully cooked. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned.
- Add the Onions and Spices:
- Add the diced onions to the pot with the cooked ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and salt over the meat and onions. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Incorporate the Beans, Corn, and Tomatoes:
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and whole kernel corn to the pot with the meat and onions. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the cans of diced tomatoes with garlic, including the juices. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Simmer and Add Chocolate:
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- After the chili has simmered, add the semisweet chocolate chips to the pot. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated into the chili.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or spices according to your preference.
- Serve the Mexican Chocolate Chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level of the chili. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Option: Make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using additional beans or diced vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Beans Variation: Feel free to use any combination of beans you prefer, such as pinto beans, navy beans, or garbanzo beans.
- Additional Toppings: Customize your chili with additional toppings such as diced avocado, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate chips? A: Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder for the chocolate chips. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and adjust to taste.
Q: How long can I store leftovers of this chili? A: Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and spices in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Is this chili spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of this Mexican Chocolate Chili:
- Beans Substitute: Omit the beans altogether or use low-carb alternatives such as black soybeans or edamame.
- Sweetener Option: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of chocolate chips to add a hint of sweetness without the carbs.
- Thickener Replacement: Instead of using corn, thicken the chili with a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or guar gum.
In conclusion, this Mexican Chocolate Chili is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul. With its hearty ingredients and rich, indulgent chocolate undertones, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or served up for a gathering with friends, this chili is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get
