Chili With A Twist (Recipe)

At the One Straw house we love a good bowl of chili, especially this homemade version with a bit of a twist.

It’s hard to beat the aroma of a pot of chili simmering on the stove, or the warming feeling of a steaming bowl on the table – oh, and the scrumptious flavor!

And this unique recipe is one you’ve just got to try.

A dash of cinnamon, a dab of chocolate, and a splash of strong brewed coffee…

Wait, did I grab the chocolate cake recipe instead ?!?

Nope, those are the secret ingredients that will add a bit of flare to your next pot of rich, savory chili!!

It only takes a dash and your guests will be saying “This is so good! But what is that flavor I can’t quite place?” MMMM.

Their bowl will be empty before they figure it out :)

We’re a bunch of lightweights when it comes to spiciness, so this is a very mild chili. Feel free to add a bit of extra heat to the pot, or just serve with a side of hot sauce.

And while this chili stands on its own, the flavors really come alive when served with a sprinkling of fresh onions and cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. Grated cheddar is good, too.

This is also another great make-ahead recipe because it reheats (and freezes) so well.

If you have visitors coming, a double or triple batch will make for some very happy company.  

Chili With A Twist

Ingredients

1 lb OSR Ground Beef

2 T olive oil

1 onion, chopped (about 1 ½ C)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

1 T chili powder

2 tsp cumin

2 tsp oregano

1 tsp cacao or baking chocolate

1/8 tsp cinnamon

½ C strong brewed coffee

1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (about 3 C)

3 C cooked dried beans (pinto, kidney, or black) (or 2 15 oz cans beans)

Optional heat: cayenne, crushed red pepper, or jalapenos to taste

Directions

Heat olive oil in a sauce pan over medium heat.

Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften.

Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

As ground beef cooks, add salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin and oregano, stir, and cook until ground beef is cooked through.

Stir in chocolate, cinnamon, coffee, and crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Turn heat down to keep at a low simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and optional “heat” ingredients as necessary.

Stir in the beans and gently simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Garnish with sour cream, chopped cilantro, chopped onions, and/or grated cheddar cheese.

Click here to buy Ground Beef