This hearty bison chili is packed with flavor and made with tender bison meat, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices. It’s perfect for warming you up on cool days!
The rich taste of bison makes this chili stand out. I love enjoying it with some cornbread—talk about a cozy meal that hits the spot! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Bison: Bison is leaner than beef, offering a rich flavor. If you can’t find bison, lean ground beef or turkey can work well too. Just keep in mind that they may be a bit fattier!
Beans: Black beans and kidney beans add protein and texture. You can substitute with pinto beans or even white beans if you prefer. Canned beans are great for convenience but always rinse them to reduce sodium.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes are a must for that base flavor. If you like it spicy, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added depth! You can also swap in crushed tomatoes for a thicker chili.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin add warmth and depth. Feel free to play around with smoked paprika or even add some chili flakes if you like your chili hotter. Fresh herbs like oregano can be swapped for dried if that’s what you have.
How Do I Cook Ground Bison Perfectly for Chili?
Cooking ground bison requires a bit of attention since it’s leaner than ground beef. Here’s how to ensure it turns out tasty:
- Start with a hot pot to sear the bison. Heat your olive oil first before adding the meat.
- Break up the bison as it cooks to ensure even browning. It might take around 6-8 minutes to cook thoroughly.
- If your pot seems dry, add a splash of beef broth during cooking, which will also help with flavor.
With these steps, your bison will turn out flavorful and ready to blend with the rest of your chili ingredients!
How to Make Bison Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or orange), diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Tortilla chips or cornbread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting bison chili will take about 15 minutes for prep and approximately 30-45 minutes to cook, bringing your total to around 1 hour. It’s a quick and satisfying meal you can enjoy any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and slightly translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, until you can smell its delicious aroma. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Bison:
Next, add the ground bison to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it at this point.
4. Add the Spices:
Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if you’d like a kick), and salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, mixing well to coat the bison.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together until combined.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will thicken the chili and develop all those wonderful flavors.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or spices depending on your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the bison chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and with lime wedges on the side. Pair it with tortilla chips or cornbread for a satisfying meal!
Enjoy this delicious, hearty bison chili that is rich in flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Bison?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be used as a substitute for bison. Just keep in mind that beef is usually fattier than bison, so you might want to drain some excess fat after cooking.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also use spicy chili powder or incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply follow the initial steps of sautéing the vegetables and browning the bison, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours for a deliciously slow-simmered chili.
How Do I Store Leftover Chili?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months!
