Smoky Chili Con Carne

Dive into a hearty bowl of Smoky Chili Con Carne, a flavor-packed classic with a bold twist! This recipe combines tender ground beef, smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and a medley of vibrant spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder for a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible. A secret ingredient—dark chocolate—adds an unexpected richness that elevates this chili to gourmet levels. Simmered to perfection with kidney beans and a touch of beef broth, this chili boasts a thick, satisfying texture and layers of complex, smoky heat. Perfect for cozy weeknights or game-day gatherings, it’s best served piping hot with fresh cilantro and indulgent toppings like sour cream and shredded cheddar. Simple to make and bursting with bold flavors, this is a must-try recipe for chili lovers everywhere!

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1.5 tablespoons chili powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 15 ounces canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 ounce dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 0 sour cream (optional, for topping)
• 0 shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 4

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook for 7-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.

Step 5

Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toast the spices with the beef for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavor.

Step 6

Add the tomato paste and stir well to combine, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 8

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 9

Remove the lid and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes to allow the chili to thicken and the flavors to meld.

Step 10

Stir in the finely chopped dark chocolate and mix until fully melted and incorporated. This adds a rich depth to the chili.

Step 11

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or spices if needed.

Step 12

Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1909.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2246.0

Total Fat 140.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 52.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 6.1g
Cholesterol 358.0mg	0%
Sodium 5571.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 139.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 43.4g	0%
Total Sugars 33.8g
Protein 122.6g	0%

Vitamin D 34.1IU	0%
Calcium 692.7mg	0%
Iron 30.5mg	0%
Potassium 4573.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.7%

Protein: 21.2%

Carbs: 24.1%