One-Pot Cozy Chocolate Chili (Printer-Friendly)

Rich chili blending beef, beans, tomatoes, and cocoa nibs for a warm, comforting meal in one pot.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb ground beef (450 g), alternatively ground turkey or plant-based mince

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)

→ Beans & Tomatoes

06 - 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
08 - 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
09 - 2 tbsp tomato paste

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp chili powder
11 - 1 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
13 - ½ tsp ground cinnamon
14 - ½ tsp dried oregano
15 - ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
16 - ¼ tsp ground black pepper
17 - Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Chocolate Twist

18 - 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
19 - 2 tbsp cocoa nibs

→ Liquids

20 - 1 cup (240 ml) low-sodium beef or vegetable broth

→ Garnishes (optional)

21 - Chopped fresh cilantro
22 - Sour cream or plain yogurt
23 - Shredded cheddar cheese
24 - Sliced green onions

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
02 - Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Incorporate chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously.
05 - Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, drained kidney and black beans, cocoa powder, and broth. Stir to combine thoroughly.
06 - Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
07 - Stir in cocoa nibs and continue simmering for 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
08 - Dish warm chili into bowls and top with desired garnishes such as cilantro, sour cream, cheese, or green onions.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • One-pot meal
  • Freezer-friendly
02 -
  • For a vegetarian version, use plant-based mince and vegetable broth.
  • Adjust chili powder and jalapeño to your preferred spice level.
03 -
  • Cocoa nibs add a subtle crunch and deep chocolate flavor—dont skip!
  • Pairs well with cornbread or over steamed rice.
Go Back