If you love the idea of combining smoky, sweet, and savory flavors into one comforting dish, then Smoky Maple Bacon Chili is calling your name. This hearty recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or game-day gatherings, bringing a delightful twist to a classic favorite with a touch of maple sweetness and the irresistible aroma of bacon.
Bacon brings a smoky, savory depth to the chili, and its crisp texture adds a delightful crunch. Ground beef serves as the hearty base, providing protein and richness. Onion and garlic offer aromatic undertones, while green and red bell peppers add color and sweetness. Kidney beans boost the fiber content, making the chili filling and nutritious. Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste create a robust sauce, tying all the flavors together. The star of the show, maple syrup, introduces a mellow sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, which enhance the dish's depth. A touch of black pepper and salt seasons the chili perfectly, while beef broth keeps it wonderfully moist.
Serve your Smoky Maple Bacon Chili with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Add some chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. A side of pickled jalapeños can add a tangy contrast to the sweet and smoky flavors.
Start by frying up four slices of bacon in a large pot over medium heat. You want them crispy, so give them a good few minutes. Once they're done, transfer them to a paper-towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble them up. In the same pot, add a pound of ground beef. Cook it over medium-high heat until it's browned all over. Don't forget to drain the excess fat – we want flavor, not grease!
Next, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, and both the green and red bell peppers. Let them sauté with the beef until they're nice and soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the veggies are ready, stir in the rinsed kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly.
Now, it's time to add the flavor bombs: maple syrup, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to make sure the spices are distributed throughout the chili. Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Five minutes before you're ready to serve, stir in the crumbled bacon. This is where the magic happens! Let everything cook together for a few more minutes, then it's ready to serve.
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