Looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that combines a bit of heat with rich depth? This Smoky Chipotle Chocolate Chili is your new go-to. It's perfect for those days when you crave a comforting meal with a unique twist.
Olive oil sets the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness. Onion and garlic bring classic aromatic depth. The combination of ground beef and ground pork provides a robust, meaty texture. Fresh red and green bell peppers add color and sweetness. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce give the dish its smoky heat, while the adobo sauce intensifies the flavor. Diced tomatoes and beef broth form the base of the chili, keeping it juicy and flavorful. Black beans and kidney beans offer a creamy texture and protein boost. Dark chocolate adds a surprising depth and a hint of sweetness. Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon create a warm spice blend. Finally, a splash of apple cider vinegar brightens everything up at the end.
Serve this chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. Top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some fresh cilantro for added brightness. Pair with a cold lager or a glass of red wine to complement the robust flavors.
Start by heating up your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the onion and garlic, cooking them until the onion is nice and translucent, about five minutes. This is your aromatic base, so make sure you get a good sauté going.
Next, add the ground beef and ground pork. Break them apart with your spoon and let them brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. You're aiming for a nice, golden brown color on the meat.
Once the meat is browned, it's time to bring in the veggies. Add your red and green bell peppers, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce. Give it a good stir and let the mixture cook for about 3-4 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
Now, pour in your diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring everything to a simmer. This should start smelling amazing!
Once it's simmering, mix in the dark chocolate, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the spices are well combined with the rest of the ingredients.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes. This gives all those bold flavors time to develop. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Just before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar. It adds a nice tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.