Venison Chili Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish to make the most out of your venison? This venison chili recipe is the perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and tender venison to warm your soul and keep you satisfied. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want to whip up a cozy meal for your family, this recipe offers a great way to showcase the rich flavor of venison. Packed with protein and easy to prepare, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Ground venison

1 pound

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Yellow onion

1 medium, diced

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Bell peppers

2, diced

Tomato paste

2 tablespoons

Canned diced tomatoes

1 can (15 ounces)

Beef broth

1 cup

Red kidney beans

1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed

Black beans

1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed

Chili powder

2 tablespoons

Ground cumin

1 tablespoon

Smoked paprika

1 teaspoon

Cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon (add more for spice if desired)

Salt

1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)

Ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Optional toppings

Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, jalapenos

Prep Time

This venison chili is quick to prep. You’ll need approximately 15 minutes to chop, dice, and measure your ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook this dish over medium heat for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The flavors will develop as it simmers to perfection.
Total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including preparation. This recipe yields 6 hearty servings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Set them aside in small bowls or on a clean surface to have them ready for sautéing.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to warm up for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook for around 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.

Step 4: Brown the Venison

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground venison to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart into smaller pieces. Cook and stir frequently until the meat is fully browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Spices

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices coat the meat and vegetables, cooking for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.

Step 6: Mix in Liquids and Tomatoes

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 7: Add the Beans

Drain and rinse the beans. Add them to the pot and stir again to mix evenly with the chili base.

Step 8: Simmer the Chili

Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help the flavors meld together.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of spices if desired.

Step 10: Serve the Chili

Ladle the chili into bowls and serve it hot. Optionally, garnish with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, or chopped cilantro. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Notes

Note on Venison

Ground venison is lean and absorbs flavors beautifully, but you can substitute it with other ground meats like beef or turkey if necessary.

Note on Beans

This recipe uses a combination of beans, but feel free to use your favorite variety or omit them if you prefer bean-less chili.

Note on Spice Level

You can adjust the spice levels to your liking. Add more chili powder or chopped jalapeños for extra heat.

Note on Cooking Ahead

Chili always tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can make this ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

Note on Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Note on Toppings

Get creative with your garnishes! Options include sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, diced avocado, hot sauce, or fresh herbs.

Cook Techniques

Sauté the Vegetables and Ground Venison

Start by sautéeing the onion, garlic, and ground venison in a large pot or Dutch oven until the venison is browned and the onions are soft.

Add Spices and Tomato Base

After browning, stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt to coat the venison and onions. Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to create a savory base.

Simmer the Chili

Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer. Allow the chili to cook for a longer duration, letting the flavors deepen and meld together.

Incorporate Beans

Add drained and rinsed beans late in the cooking process to prevent them from overcooking. Simmer again to combine flavors evenly.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the chili before serving and adjust the salt, spices, or seasonings based on preference. Adding more chili powder or smoked paprika could enhance boldness.

FAQ

Can I substitute ground venison for another meat?

Yes, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even bison as a substitute for venison.

Can I make the chili ahead of time?

Absolutely. Chili often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.

Can I freeze venison chili?

Yes, allow the chili to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What toppings work well with venison chili?

Some great toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, chopped cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips.

What beans should I use for venison chili?

You can use kidney beans, black beans, or a combination of the two for a hearty texture.

Can I make this chili spicier?

For more spice, add ingredients like fresh jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot chili powder to the recipe.

Do I need special equipment to make this recipe?

No, a large pot or Dutch oven is all you need to make this venison chili.

How long should I cook venison chili?

The chili should simmer for at least 30-40 minutes to develop flavor, but longer simmering (up to an hour) can deepen the taste further.

Can I make a larger batch for a crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe, but make sure your pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients.

Is venison a lean meat?

Yes, venison is leaner than beef, which makes it a healthy choice for chili recipes. You might need to add a splash of oil or water during cooking to avoid dryness.

Conclusion

This venison chili is a versatile, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a unique way to incorporate lean venison into a comforting recipe that everyone will enjoy. Whether for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this chili serves as an ideal option packed with rich, savory flavors.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Venison Tacos

Transform your venison chili into tacos by spooning it onto warm tortillas and topping it with cheese, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.

Chili Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Spoon the venison chili over baked potatoes and top with sour cream, green onions, and shredded cheese for a filling, comforting meal.

Chili Cheese Nachos

Use the venison chili as a topping for nachos with tortilla chips, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a quick snack or meal.

Venison Chili Mac

Mix the venison chili with cooked pasta, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for a delicious chili mac combination.

Chili Over Rice

Serve the venison chili over steamed rice for a simple and satisfying meal option.

Chili and Cornbread Combo

Pair a bowl of venison chili with freshly baked cornbread for the ultimate cozy combination.