Fire and Ice Chili with Chocolate Twist
Fire and Ice Chili with Chocolate Twist is a bold and complex dish combining spicy heat, cool lime and cilantro, and the rich depth of dark chocolate, creating a unique and comforting chili experience perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Chocolate
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp dark cocoa powder or 1 oz chopped dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
Base and Beans
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, rinsed and drained
Fresh Ingredients and Seasoning
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant, to build a savory foundation.
- Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add ground beef or turkey to the pot. Break apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned with no pink remaining, creating a hearty base.
- Step 3: Add Spices and Cocoa
Sprinkle in chili powder, cayenne pepper, and cocoa powder or chopped dark chocolate. Stir well to coat the meat and aromatics, allowing flavors to bloom for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in crushed tomatoes and rinsed beans. Stir and bring to a simmer. Let cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes to meld and deepen the flavors.
- Step 5: Finish with Fire and Ice
Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice into the chili and stir in chopped cilantro to add bright, cooling contrast.
Notes
- Use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for best flavor.
- Brown the meat and spices thoroughly to add rich layers of flavor.
- Simmer the chili low and slow for tender beans and melded tastes.
- Adjust the heat gradually to avoid overpowering the chocolate’s sweetness.
- Add lime juice and cilantro right before serving to preserve freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chili, spicy chili, chocolate chili, fire and ice chili, comfort food, spicy recipe, gluten free chili