Bison chili is a hearty dish packed with flavors! Made with tender bison meat, beans, and lots of spices, it’s perfect for warming you up on chilly days.
This chili is a bit different from the usual beef chili, and trust me, it’s just as delicious. I love serving it with some bread on the side—it’s a meal that fills you up in a cozy way!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Bison: This is the star of the show! Bison is leaner than beef, giving your chili a slightly different taste. If you can’t find bison, ground turkey or lean beef can work, but adjust the cooking time since they may render more fat.
Beans: Kidney and black beans add texture and protein. If you prefer, you can swap with pinto beans or white beans based on your taste. You can also leave the beans out for a grain-free option.
Chili Powder: This ingredient brings warmth and flavor. If you like it spicier, consider using chipotle powder or adding extra cayenne pepper. Conversely, mild paprika can work if you want less heat.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the chili and adds richness. In a pinch, use canned tomatoes or even a splash of ketchup as a last resort.
Garnishes: I love fresh cilantro and sour cream for brightness. Feel free to customize with avocado or jalapeños for more flavor!
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Flavored Just Right?
The key to a well-flavored chili lies in toasting your spices! After browning the bison, take a moment to stir in the spices and tomato paste before adding the liquids. This little step brings out their flavors beautifully.
- Heat your oil, then sauté onions and bell pepper first to build the flavor base.
- Add garlic for a fragrant kick, cooking just until fragrant.
- Once the bison is browned, mix in the spices and cook for a couple of minutes to develop their depth.
Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust salt and spice levels to match your preference, making this chili just right for you. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Bison Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Tortilla chips, optional, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This bison chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 40 minutes to cook. So set aside about 50 minutes in total for a warm, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they’re softened, which should take about 5 minutes. The kitchen will start smelling wonderful!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Bison:
Now, add the ground bison to the pot. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, you can drain it.
4. Toast the Spices:
Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). Add salt and pepper to taste, and cook everything together for 1-2 minutes. This helps to toast the spices and brings out their flavors!
5. Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Now, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and your broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. It’s starting to look like chili already!
6. Simmer and Meld Flavors:
Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to mix the flavors. If it gets too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to thin it out.
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give the chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Add more salt or chili powder if you think it needs it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Don’t forget the lime wedges and optional tortilla chips for a crunchy side!
This bison chili is rich and flavorful, filled with spices and hearty ingredients. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Bison?
Absolutely! If you can’t find ground bison, ground beef makes a perfect substitute. Just be mindful of the fat content; lean ground beef will give you a similar result without the excess grease.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bison and opt for more beans or add in some diced vegetables like zucchini and corn instead. You can also add extra protein with lentils or quinoa for a hearty alternative!
Can I Make Bison Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Just brown the bison and sauté the onions and peppers first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to deepen beautifully!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick future meal!
