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Spiced Layered Chili with Dark Chocolate and Smoked Paprika

This chili recipe involves browning onions and garlic before simmering with a blend of spices, ground meat, beans, and vegetables. The final dish has a hearty, thick consistency with a rich and layered flavor profile, finished with hints of smoked paprika and dark chocolate that deepen the complexity.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium onions diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey or other meat of choice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
  • 1 can kidney beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 ounce dark chocolate roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add diced onions. Stir and cook until they turn translucent and soften, about 5-7 minutes. You'll notice a fragrant aroma and slightly golden edges forming.
  2. Add minced garlic to the onions, stirring constantly. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, stirring until it browns evenly and no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. The meat should develop a rich, browned crust to deepen the flavor.
  4. Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their aroma.
  5. Add diced tomatoes with their juices and drained kidney beans to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partly, and let the chili simmer gently for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help flavors meld, and you'll notice the mixture thickening slightly with a rich, fragrant smell filling your kitchen.
  7. Add the chopped dark chocolate to the chili, stirring until fully melted and blended into the sauce. This adds a subtle depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
  8. Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you want more heat, sprinkle in extra cayenne or chili powder. Let the chili rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to fully develop.
  9. Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, and enjoy its hearty, layered texture and complex flavor.

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or a dash of smoky chipotle for extra depth.