Valentine’s Wine and Chocolate Chili

"Here's a delicious chili recipe that incorporates wine and chocolate for a rich and flavorful taste. This chili pairs well with a robust red wine."

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour

Paired With

Main Protein

Beef

Ingredients

IngredientQuantity
Ground Beef 2 lbs, 1, 4 cloves, 1, 1 can (15 oz), 1 can (15 oz), 1 can (15 oz), 1 cup, 2 Tbsp., 2 Tbsp., 1 tsp., 1 tsp., 1 tsp., 1/2 tsp., to taste, 2 oz., 1 Tbsp., 1
Onion, large, diced
Garlic, minced
Bell Pepper, any color, diced
Black beans, drained and rinsed
Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Tomatoes, diced
Red wine (full bodied)
Tomato paste
Chili powder
Cumin
Smoked paprika
Oregano
Cinnamon
Salt and Pepper
Dark Chocolate, chopped (70% cocoa or higher)
Olive oil
Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions

Directions

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
  5. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce.
  6. Add diced bell pepper, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  7. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  8. Add the chopped dark chocolate to the chili and stir until it melts and is well incorporated.
  9. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the chili is too thick, you can add a bit of water or more wine.
  10. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful wine and chocolate chili with a glass of your favorite red wine!