This hearty bison chili is packed with rich flavors and delicious spices. It’s made with ground bison, beans, and fresh vegetables, creating a cozy meal that warms you up!
I love how bison gives a tasty twist to classic chili! Serve it with some cornbread, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, it’s that good! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Bison: Bison has a rich, gamey flavor that’s a nice change from beef. If bison isn’t available, ground turkey or lean beef can work. Just keep in mind that the flavor and fat content will vary.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add protein and fiber. If you prefer, you can swap them out for pinto beans or chickpeas. Canned beans save time, but if you have dried beans, soak and cook them ahead for a more homemade taste.
Spices: Chili powder is key for flavor. If you like it spicy, feel free to add more cayenne or even diced jalapeños. You can also experiment with spices like coriander or cinnamon for a different twist.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the chili. If you’re not a fan, try fresh parsley or green onions instead. Both will add a nice touch of color and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Onions and Garlic for Flavor?
Sautéing the onions and garlic properly makes a big difference in flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat your oil in the pot until it’s shimmering, but not smoking.
- Add the onions and cook on medium heat until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Once the onions are soft, add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Garlic cooks quickly, so stay close and stir to avoid burning it, which can make it taste bitter.
This process enhances the sweetness of the onions and creates a flavorful base for the chili! Enjoy your cooking! 🍲
Bison Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground bison
Beans and Vegetables:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional)
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Liquids and Additions:
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Toppings:
- Sliced jalapenos
- Diced avocado
- Sour cream
- Sliced red chili
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bison chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 30-45 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to prepare a hearty meal that’s perfect for sharing or leftovers the next day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This will bring out its natural sweetness!
2. Add Garlic and Bison:
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground bison. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the Spices:
Once the bison is browned, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom and release their wonderful aromas.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and the optional green chilies to the pot. Pour in the broth and stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer; you should start smelling those amazing chili spices!
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer gently, uncovered, for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally, letting the chili thicken and all those wonderful flavors meld together.
6. Finish and Serve:
After the chili has thickened to your liking, stir in the fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced jalapenos, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy with crunchy tortilla chips on the side!
Now, dive into this comforting and flavorful Bison Chili. Enjoy every bite! 🌶️
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you can’t find ground bison, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or lean beef. Just note that the flavor and fat content will change slightly depending on your choice.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bison and use more beans or vegetables like lentils, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth for the liquid.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness?
Definitely! You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your taste. For a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne, and alternatively, add more green chilies for flavor without too much heat.
