Description
This Savory Bison Chili is a healthy, hearty, and comforting dish perfect for cozy nights. Using lean ground bison, combined with flavorful spices and nutritious beans, this chili offers a delicious and protein-packed meal that is easy to prepare and fully satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb Ground Bison (Can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.)
Vegetables
- 1 medium Onion (Yellow or white onions work beautifully.)
- 1 medium Bell Pepper (Green or red; any color bell pepper can be used.)
- 4 oz Chopped Green Chilis (Optional to omit for a milder chili.)
Canned Goods
- 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes (Use stewed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.)
- 15 oz Black or Kidney Beans (Use any bean variety you enjoy.)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1.5 tbsp Chili Powder (Adjust to taste for spiciness.)
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin (Enhances the overall flavor.)
- 1 to 1.5 tsp Salt (Start with smaller and adjust during cooking.)
- 0.25 tsp Ground Pepper (Adjust to your preference.)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped avocado
- Guacamole
- Scallions
- Cilantro
- Tortilla strips
Instructions
- Brown the Bison: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground bison until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and ensure an even cook.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a separate pot, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients in Pot: Add the sautéed onion and bell pepper to the pot along with the crushed tomatoes, black or kidney beans, chopped green chilis, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and ground pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop deeper flavors.
- Finish with Bison: Stir the browned ground bison into the chili just before serving. Allow it to warm through for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the chili hot, garnished with optional toppings such as chopped avocado, guacamole, scallions, cilantro, or tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for the bison to reduce fat content while keeping high protein.
- Use stewed tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- If you want a milder chili, omit the chopped green chilis or reduce the chili powder.
- Adjust salt and pepper gradually during cooking to suit your taste preference.
- This chili pairs well with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
