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Secret Ingredient Chili That Wins Cook-offs: 3-Hour Magic

Secret Ingredient Chili That Wins Cook-offs
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This is the competition-winning chili recipe from Elias and Hannah at Flavor Vista. We reveal the secret ingredient that gives this chili a bold, unforgettable flavor boost. Prepare to impress everyone with this elevated classic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (The Secret Ingredient)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Drain off excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and brewed coffee. Stir well to combine.
  5. Add the rinsed beans, then stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder. Mix thoroughly until the cocoa is fully dissolved.
  6. Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. For best flavor, simmer for 3 hours.
  7. Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • The unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep color and complexity, not a chocolate flavor. It is key to winning flavor.
  • Using strong brewed coffee deepens the savory notes of the meat and spices.
  • Letting the chili simmer longer allows the flavors to fully meld together. Patience pays off here.
  • Rinsing the canned beans removes excess starch and sodium.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorvista.com/secret-ingredient-chili-wins-cookoffs/