This classic chili with chocolate is the perfect mixture of spicy and sweet. Chocolate adds a subtle sweetness which balances the spices and makes for a delicious, protein-packed slow-cooker meal.
Ingredients
Why add chocolate to chili?
The Aztecs and the Mayans were the first to incorporate cocoa into their cuisine. They often prepared a chili sauce called “mole,” which included cocoa as one of its key ingredients. Mole was used in various traditional dishes, including stews and tamales. As the use of cocoa spread throughout the region, it eventually found its way into chili, where it was used to add depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness to the dish. Adding chocolate to chili adds a rich, deep flavor. The chocolate helps balance out the heat from the chili spices and gives the chili a subtle sweetness that complements the savory and spicy flavors.
What kind of chocolate is best?
Some kind of semisweet or dark baking chocolate bar is best. I love this Ghirardelli bar. For a lower sugar option, try using cocoa powder.
Do I need a slow cooker?
No! This recipe can be made on the stove as well. Follow the same steps but simmer the ingredients on low for 1.5-2 hours.
How to Make Chili with Chocolate
Step 1: Cook and stir ground beef, onion and garlic in a pan over medium-high heat until beef is browned, stirring to break up meat. Drain fat if necessary.
Step 2: Place beef mixture in a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
Step 3: Cover; cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours.
Storage
Store chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for 3 to 4 months.
Recipe Notes
*Spice boost: Add chipotles, hot sauce or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
**Chili flavors are always better the next day once they've had time to deepen.
What to Serve with Chili
This classic chili with chocolate is the perfect mixture of spicy and sweet. Chocolate adds a subtle sweetness which balances the spices and makes for a delicious, protein-packed slow-cooker meal.
Cook and stir ground beef, onion and garlic in a pan over medium-high heat until beef is browned, stirring to break up meat. Drain fat if necessary.
Place beef mixture in a slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
Cover; cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
*Spice boost: Add chipotles, hot sauce or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
**Chili flavors are always better the next day once they've had time to deepen.
