Venison Chili Crock Pot

Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year, look no further than venison chili. This crock-pot recipe is a winner when it comes to balancing complex flavors with simplicity of preparation. For those who appreciate a rich, savory meal that is both satisfying and easy to make, this slow-cooker venison chili is a must-try. It’s packed with protein and deep flavors that will make everyone around the table happy. Let’s dive into the details of this incredible dish.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Ground Venison:

1 pound

Kidney Beans:

1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed

Black Beans:

1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed

Diced Tomatoes:

2 cans (14.5 ounces each), undrained

Tomato Paste:

3 tablespoons

Beef Broth:

1 cup

Onion:

1 medium, finely chopped

Green Bell Pepper:

1, finely chopped

Minced Garlic:

4 cloves

Chili Powder:

2 tablespoons

Ground Cumin:

1 tablespoon

Smoked Paprika:

1 teaspoon

Cocoa Powder:

1 teaspoon

Salt:

1 teaspoon

Black Pepper:

1 teaspoon

Optional Toppings:

Shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro

Prep Time

Preparing this venison chili is incredibly simple and only takes about 15 minutes of active effort. The most labor-intensive parts involve chopping your vegetables and browning the ground venison. A quick sauté of the onion, pepper, and garlic adds even more depth of flavor before piling everything into the slow cooker.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The beauty of this recipe lies in its hands-off cooking method. The cook time is 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, making it a perfect option to prepare early in the day and let the crock pot work its magic while you carry on with your day. Overall, including prep, the total time is approximately 7-8 hours depending on your cooking setting. The yield is ideal for 6-8 servings, offering plenty to feed a family or save for meal prep later in the week.

This venison chili is a game-changer when it comes to showcasing the richness of lean venison meat while incorporating the familiar and comforting taste of traditional chili. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal that captures the warmth of home cooking, whether it’s for a weekday dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the onion and bell peppers into small pieces. Mince the garlic. Measure out your spices and set them aside for easy use.

Step 2: Brown the Venison

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the venison. Break it up into small chunks with a wooden spoon and cook until slightly browned. This step helps to enhance the flavor. Drain off any excess liquid or fat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Add the browned venison to the crock pot. Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell peppers, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and kidney beans (drain and rinse them first). Stir to combine.

Step 4: Season the Chili

Sprinkle in all the measured spices, including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and any others listed in your recipe. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 5: Add the Liquid

Pour in the broth or water to ensure your chili has the proper consistency. Stir to fully combine all the ingredients.

Step 6: Cook the Chili

Cover the crock pot with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, ensuring the flavors mix well.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.

Step 8: Serve the Chili

Serve the venison chili warm. Top with your choice of garnishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing Venison

Use ground venison for this recipe. You can substitute with ground beef or turkey if venison isn’t available.

Note 2: Drain and Rinse Beans

For a better texture and reduced sodium, drain and rinse the kidney beans before adding them to the crock pot.

Note 3: Adjust Spices to Taste

Chili recipes can vary in spice levels. Feel free to adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika to match your heat preference.

Note 4: Liquid Consistency

Add more broth or water if the chili is too thick. Conversely, simmer with the lid off at the end to thicken if the chili is too thin.

Note 5: Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Note 6: Freezing the Chili

Venison chili freezes well. Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Note 7: Toppings and Garnishes

This chili pairs well with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or crushed tortilla chips. Customize based on your preferences.
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Cook Techniques

Prepare the Ingredients in Advance

Taking the time to chop, measure, and have all ingredients ready before starting can make the cooking process smooth and effective.

Utilize a Crock-Pot for Slow Cooking

Using a crock-pot ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully as the venison and spices are slowly cooked over several hours.

Browning the Venison First

For the best flavor, brown the ground venison on the stovetop before adding it to the crock-pot. This step enhances the taste and texture of the meat.

Layer Ingredients Mindfully

Paying attention to how the ingredients are layered into the crock-pot can help distribute flavors throughout the chili. Combine liquids, seasonings, vegetables, and meat thoughtfully.

Aim for Proper Timing

Cook the chili on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This allows time for the venison to tenderize and for the spices to fully incorporate.

Adjust Seasonings to Taste

As the chili nears completion, taste the mixture and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices as needed to suit personal preferences.

Combine with Recommended Sides

Enhance the dish by serving with options such as cornbread, chips, or cheese for added texture and flavor satisfaction.

FAQ

Why do you use venison for the chili?

Venison is a lean meat, which makes the dish healthier while still providing excellent flavor when combined with the spices.

Can I substitute venison with other meats?

Yes, you can use other ground meats like beef or turkey if venison is unavailable or not preferred.

What if I don’t have a crock-pot?

If you don’t have a crock-pot, you can cook the chili in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven on low heat, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I prepare this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili can be prepared ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen over time.

Is it possible to make this chili spicy?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or extra hot sauce to increase the spice level to your liking.

What toppings work well with venison chili?

Popular toppings for venison chili include shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, diced avocado, and tortilla chips.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute venison with plant-based alternatives or simply use beans and vegetables, omitting the meat altogether.

Do I need to soak the beans beforehand?

If you’re using canned beans, there’s no need to soak them beforehand. However, if using dried beans, ensure they are soaked and cooked prior to adding to the chili.

How can I prevent the chili from being too watery?

If the chili ends up too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid and thicken the consistency. Cornstarch or masa flour can also help thicken the chili.

Conclusion

The venison chili crock pot recipe is a hearty, flavorful option that combines wholesome ingredients to deliver an unforgettable meal. It’s not only a great way to enjoy venison but also a perfect choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings. Cooking it in a crockpot ensures the flavors meld beautifully and provides a hands-off approach to creating a dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe to transform your venison into something truly special!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Venison Stew

Try making a comforting venison stew with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery. A slow cooker can be used for tender, fall-apart meat and rich flavors.

Venison Tacos

Create delicious venison tacos by seasoning ground venison with taco spices and serving with tortillas, fresh salsa, and your favorite toppings.

Venison Shepherd’s Pie

Layer cooked venison with mashed potatoes and vegetables in a casserole dish for a rustic and satisfying shepherd’s pie.

Venison and Sweet Potato Hash

Mix cooked venison with roasted sweet potatoes, onions, and peppers for a tasty hash served as breakfast or dinner.

Venison Burgers

Grind the venison into patties, season well, and grill them to create a juicy and tender burger option paired with your favorite condiments.