Chili with Cocoa Powder

Another day, another chili recipe, and this one knocks it out of the park, thanks to the heartwarming addition of cocoa powder. While chili with cocoa powder might sound unusual, adding cocoa powder is actually a popular secret ingredient that will elevate any traditional chili above the rest. Cocoa powder adds a significant boost in flavor, helping to make other spices in chili taste more like themselves. Essentially, a dash of cocoa powder enhances the flavors already there, adding depth where you want it. This recipe calls for just a teaspoon, so if you’re on the fence don’t be—it’s just enough to add a rich flavor, but not enough to notice that it’s cocoa powder you’re using.

Ingredients for Chili with Cocoa Powder

• Beef: Use 90% lean ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Kidney beans: This recipe calls for two cans of kidney beans; you can use other beans such as black or pinto if you’d prefer, or a mix of two.
• Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes, undrained, and tomato sauce act as a broth of sorts to the chili.
• Onions: Use two medium-sized yellow onions for the best flavor.
• Green pepper: Green bell peppers and poblano are excellent pepper types for making chili.
• Flavorings: This recipe calls for chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano and salt and pepper to taste…and of course, cocoa powder.
• Garlic: At least two whole garlic cloves, finely minced, helps to boost the flavor of this recipe.
• Optional: Worcestershire sauce adds a slightly sweet, slightly salty taste, but it’s optional if you’d prefer to leave it out.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the meat

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In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook beef and onion until the meat is no longer pink; drain.

Step 2: Add the rest and simmer

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Add the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, pepper, garlic, herbs and spices, mixing well to combine. Bring chili to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for three hours, stirring occasionally.

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Recipe Variations

• Add corn: Frozen corn is a particularly delicious addition to this recipe; add it toward the end, stirring well to combine.
• Swap meat: If you’d prefer a slightly different taste, swap the beef for black beans, turkey, chicken, or sausage.

How to Store Chili with Cocoa Powder

You can store any leftovers of this chili recipe with cocoa powder in an airtight storage container in the fridge for up to four days.

Can you freeze chili with cocoa powder?

Yes, freezing chili to enjoy later is a wonderful way to cut down on future meal prepping. If stored properly in a freezer-safe, airtight container, you’ll be able to enjoy this recipe for chili with cocoa powder for up to six months after it has been frozen.

Chili with Cocoa Powder Tips

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Can I use a slow cooker to make this recipe for chili with cocoa powder?

Yes, slow-cooker chili allows you to focus on other things while your food is cooking. To do so, simply brown meat and onions in a pan and then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cover and cook for eight to ten hours.

What should I serve with chili with cocoa powder?

You can serve chili with cocoa powder over rice, with corn chips, or with a side of rich, buttery cornbread. It’s delicious with sour cream and avocado slices on top, too!

Will the cocoa powder make this chili sweet?

If you’ve never added cocoa powder to your chili, you may be concerned that it’ll make your chili sweet. Cocoa powder is not sweet, and the deep, chocolate flavor only works to enhance the other spices. Essentially, if you want to create a mouthwatering, flavor-packed chili but aren’t sure how to do so without adding tons of extra spices, reach for the cocoa powder. Just a tiny bit enhances the flavors without making it sweet or chocolatey. Trust us, it’s worth experimenting with.