Warm up with this Hearty Venison Chili recipe! Packed with lean ground venison, three types of beans, and a rich blend of spices, this chili is perfect for cozy family dinners or serving during game days. The bold flavors and smoky hints make it a delicious twist on classic chili, bringing a touch of the outdoors to your table.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Venison: 2 pounds of lean, protein-rich venison, which gives this chili its unique flavor and texture.
- Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons for browning the venison and sautéing the vegetables, adding richness to the base.
- Yellow Onions: 2, chopped. These add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the chili.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic enhances the savory elements and brings a subtle kick to the dish.
- Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped. Adds a mild sweetness that complements the spices and venison.
- Jalapenos: 2, de-seeded and chopped, for a gentle heat that enhances the chili’s bold flavor.
- Ground Cumin: 2 tablespoons, essential for that earthy, slightly smoky taste characteristic of chili.
- Chili Powder: 4 tablespoons, adds a deep, spicy flavor to the chili, creating its classic warmth.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon, for a smoky, savory undertone that complements the venison.
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ to ½ teaspoon, optional, to increase the heat if desired.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, enhances the seasoning with a mild kick.
- Salt: 2 teaspoons, brings out the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- Beef Broth: 3 cups, provides a rich and hearty base for the chili.
- Worcestershire Sauce: ¼ cup, adds a deep umami flavor that enriches the savory elements of the chili.
- Pinto Beans (canned): 30 ounces, drained, for a soft, creamy texture and extra protein.
- Kidney Beans (canned): 15 ounces, drained, adds heartiness to the chili.
- Black Beans (canned): 15 ounces, drained, rounds out the bean trio with a slightly firmer texture.
- Crushed Tomatoes (canned): 28 ounces, not drained, provides acidity and a robust tomato flavor.
- Tomato Paste: 6 ounces, thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Brown the Venison
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground venison and cook until browned.
- Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and jalapenos to the pot. Sauté until softened.
- Step 3: Add Seasonings
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
- Step 4: Add Liquids and Tomatoes
- Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Step 5: Add Beans and Simmer
- Stir in the pinto beans, kidney beans, and black beans. Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the venison chili hot, with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.
- Pair with sides like cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
- Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
- This chili also freezes well; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a milder chili, adjust the chili powder and omit the red pepper flakes.
- Substitute ground beef or turkey if venison is not available; however, venison provides a unique, lean flavor that makes this chili special.
- Consider using fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth and smokiness.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests letting chili simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Chef Alton Brown recommends using a mix of beans to add varied textures and flavors to the chili.
- Chef Ree Drummond advises topping chili with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs for a creamy, balanced finish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lean, protein-rich venison makes this chili healthier and brings a unique flavor to the dish.
- Perfect for cold-weather gatherings, game days, or hearty family meals.
- The combination of beans, spices, and tomatoes creates a comforting, bold flavor that everyone will love.
Variations
- Make it spicy by adding extra jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use turkey or chicken broth for a lighter flavor if desired.
- Experiment with other beans like cannellini or navy beans for different textures.