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Sweet and Spicy Chili with Dark Chocolate

This chili combines smoky spices and tender beef with a hint of unexpected sweetness from dark chocolate. The dish is simmered until thick and flavorful, with a rich, hearty texture and a deep, complex flavor profile enhanced by the addition of dark chocolate near the end.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey/chicken for variation
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 1 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp cumin
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 1 oz dark chocolate roughly chopped
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp oil for sautéing
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You’ll smell the garlic releasing its aroma.
  3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8 minutes, until no pink remains and it starts to sear slightly.
  4. Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes until slightly softened and the mixture is fragrant.
  5. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Stir well to evenly coat everything with the spices. Let cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and develop flavor.
  6. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken and the flavors will meld beautifully.
  8. About 5 minutes before serving, add the roughly chopped dark chocolate to the chili. Stir until the chocolate melts completely into the sauce, giving it a rich, glossy appearance with a subtle depth of flavor.
  9. Taste the chili and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to slightly thicken if desired.
  10. Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flavor and contrast.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder. The chili tastes even better the next day, as flavors continue to meld. Feel free to adjust the heat level by varying the amount of cayenne or chili powder.