Go Back

Smoky Dark Chocolate Chili

This chili features a hearty mix of ground meat, beans, and spices, enhanced with roasted peppers and smoky chipotle to deepen its flavor. Dark chocolate is stirred in during simmering, adding richness and a subtle sweetness, resulting in a thick, flavorful stew with a glossy surface and satisfying texture. The dish combines robust aromas and complex layers of taste, making it both comforting and sophisticated.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 325
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey or other ground meat
  • 1 cup dried beans or canned beans drained and rinsed if canned
  • 2 pcs roasted red peppers chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 Tbsp chipotle powder or to taste
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate finely chopped or chips
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in the large pot over medium-high heat, then add the ground meat. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and chopped roasted peppers to the meat. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant, and the peppers are slightly softened.
  3. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and chipotle powder, stirring constantly to coat the meat and vegetables with smoky spice. Let cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes along with the beans and pour in the broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot loosely and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the chili thickens slightly.
  6. Stir in the dark chocolate and let it melt into the chili, stirring continuously. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the chili to deepen in flavor and thicken to a hearty consistency.
  7. Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the heat and spice level as needed. Stir well and let it rest off the heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
  8. Serve the smoky dark chocolate chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or shredded cheese. Enjoy the rich, complex flavors and satisfying texture.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, try charring the peppers before chopping. Adjust chipotle and chocolate amounts to suit your taste preferences. This chili reheats well and develops even richer flavor the next day.