This hearty venison chili is packed with flavor and goodness! It combines tender venison, beans, tomatoes, and a spicy blend of seasonings that warms you up on a chilly day.
It’s the perfect dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. I love loading mine with cheese and sour cream—because why not make it extra delicious? You’ll want seconds for sure! 🥘
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Venison: This is the star of the show! Venison is lean and flavorful. If you can’t find venison, lean ground beef or turkey work well as substitutes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are my go-to, but feel free to use red or white onions if you prefer their flavor.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add protein and texture. You can swap for pinto or white beans, or even leave them out for a low-carb option.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create warmth and smokiness in the dish. Experiment with other spices like coriander or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist!
Broth: Beef or venison broth gives a rich flavor. Vegetable broth is a great plant-based option if you’re looking for something lighter.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor when Cooking Spices?
Toasting spices before adding liquids enhances their flavor significantly. Here’s how you do it:
- After browning the venison, add your spices directly to the pan.
- Stir them in and let them cook for about a minute. This releases their natural oils and deepens the flavor.
- Make sure not to burn them—keep stirring until they’re fragrant!
This little step can take your chili from good to outstanding!
What’s the Best Way to Simmer Chili?
Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring your chili to a gentle simmer after adding the tomatoes and broth.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. This keeps moisture in and lets the flavors concentrate.
- Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
This patience pays off, giving you a rich, flavorful chili that you’ll love.
How to Make Delicious Venison Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Meat: 1 lb ground venison
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Canned Goods: 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- Broth: 1 cup beef or venison broth
- Beans: 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Spices: 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp oregano; salt and pepper to taste
- Oil: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious venison chili takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 45 minutes for cooking. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour total to create this warming dish. Quick enough for a weekday dinner, but hearty enough to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 4 minutes. This step will help bring out the sweetness in the onion.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Garlic cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!
3. Brown the Venison:
Now, add the ground venison to the pot. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Toast the Spices:
Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices for about 1 minute. This step really enhances their flavor, making the chili super delicious!
5. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and broth to the pot. Stir everything to combine really well. This is where your chili starts to take shape!
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Add the Beans:
After 30 minutes, add both drained and rinsed kidney and black beans to the pot. Stir well and then simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes. This way, the chili can thicken up nicely!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary. A little extra salt or a dash more chili powder can make all the difference!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your venison chili is now ready to enjoy! Serve it hot in bowls and garnish with your choice of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, and chopped green onions. Each topping adds a delicious twist!
Dig in and enjoy your rich and flavorful venison chili with family or friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Chili?
Absolutely! If venison isn’t available, lean ground beef, turkey, or even chicken can work well as substitutes. Just note that the flavor profile will differ slightly, especially if you’re using a stronger meat like beef.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you love a kick, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onions. You can also include hot sauce or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for additional heat!
What Should I Serve with Venison Chili?
This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a bit of crunch! For a lighter option, a side salad works great too.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chili?
Leftover venison chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months!
