Description

There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of venison chili to warm you up on a cold day. This dish is a perfect fusion of bold, rich flavors and the lean, nutritious goodness of venison. Unlike beef, venison is lower in fat but still packs a punch when it comes to taste. This slow-cooked chili is packed with smoky spices, a flavorful tomato base, and the perfect blend of seasonings for a comforting, protein-rich meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5–2 lbs. ground venison
1 large onion, diced
4–5 garlic cloves, minced
1–2 bell peppers, diced
1–2 jalapeños, diced (optional for heat)
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp. tomato paste
2 cups beef or vegetable broth
1–2 cans kidney, black, or pinto beans (optional)

Instructions

Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp. oil over medium-high heat. Add ground venison and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess liquid if necessary.
Sauté Vegetables: Add onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and jalapeños. Cook for another 30 seconds.
Toast the Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to release flavors.
Add Liquids & Tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Add beans (if using) and bay leaves. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the chili is too thick, add a little broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy: Remove bay leaves, ladle into bowls, and top with cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, let the chili rest for a few hours or refrigerate overnight before serving. The flavors will continue to develop and enhance the taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Venison chili, wild game chili, easy venison recipes, hearty chili, protein-rich chili