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Secret Ingredient Chili That Wins Cook-offs: 1 Shocking Flavor Fix

Secret Ingredient Chili That Wins Cook-offs
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This chili recipe uses a surprising secret ingredient to deliver a deep, complex flavor that wins cook-offs. Get ready to impress everyone with this bold, competition-worthy dish.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Secret Ingredient)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain off excess fat.
  2. Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Add the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
  5. Pour in the brewed coffee. This adds depth you will love.
  6. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  7. Introduce the secret ingredient: whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until fully dissolved.
  8. Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Longer cooking time improves flavor.
  9. Just before serving, stir in the apple cider vinegar. This brightens the final taste.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, toast the dried spices lightly in the pot before adding the liquids.
  • You can substitute dark beer for the coffee if you prefer a different liquid base.
  • Taste and adjust salt and heat levels after the chili has simmered for one hour.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/secret-ingredient-chili-that-wins-cook-offs/