Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dinner that’s also healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This deer chili recipe, slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot, is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening. It's a fantastic way to use up that venison from your last hunting trip, or to simply enjoy a flavorful and hearty meal. This recipe is packed with protein and flavor, making it a winner for the whole family. Get ready for a culinary adventure that's both simple and impressive!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground venison
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Brown the venison: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground venison. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds depth of flavor and helps prevent a greasy chili.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
- Combine ingredients in the crock pot: Transfer the venison and vegetables to your crock pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.
Tips for the Best Deer Chili:
- Don't overcook the venison: Overcooked venison can become dry and tough. Be sure to brown it properly but avoid overcooking.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, diced tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Make it thicker: If your chili is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Deer Chili: Substitute the ground venison with 1.5 cups of cooked lentils or 2 cups of crumbled firm tofu for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Deer Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier chili.
- White Chili: Omit the chili powder and use a combination of white beans instead of kidney, pinto, and black beans. Add some corn and green chilis for a lighter flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This delicious and easy deer chili recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It's a healthy and flavorful option that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!