She Strengthens

Bison Chili Dogs: A Game-Changing Twist on a Classic

Inspired by the iconic chili dogs of The Varsity in Atlanta, we’ve created a unique recipe that swaps traditional beef for leaner, iron-rich bison. This flavorful alternative boasts a similar taste and texture to beef, making it an exciting substitute in this mouthwatering dish.

The Benefits of Bison

Compared to beef, bison is a leaner protein source with higher iron content. This makes it an attractive option for health-conscious foodies and adventurous eaters alike. Whether you’re looking to mix up your protein routine or simply try something new, bison is an excellent choice.

Crafting the Perfect Chili

To create this delectable chili, start by sautéing onions and garlic with aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder. Next, deglaze the pan with a rich brown ale, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Then, introduce ground bison and simmer the mixture for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Assembling the Ultimate Hot Dog Bar

Once the chili is ready, it’s time to build your hot dog bar. Smother juicy hot dogs (or “bison dogs” for the ultimate experience) with the savory chili, and offer a variety of toppings, including shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, pickled jalapeños, and pepperoncini. This customizable feast is sure to delight friends and family at your next gathering.

Sourcing High-Quality Bison

When shopping for ground bison, look for gourmet grocers or online retailers that offer premium products. For more information on bison, including sourcing options and recipes, check out our comprehensive guide to this game animal.

Recipe Details

Yields: 8 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup small-dice yellow onion
• 3 medium garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 cup brown ale
• 1 pound ground bison meat or lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with their juices

To assemble:

• 8 cooked beef or bison hot dogs
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup small-dice yellow onion
• Coarsely chopped Pickled Jalapeños
• Coarsely chopped pepperoncini

Instructions

For the chili:

1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the onions and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, and paprika, stirring to coat the onions.
4. Add the tomato paste, cooking until no longer raw-tasting.
5. Deglaze the pan with beer, scraping up browned bits.
6. Add the bison and measured salt, breaking the meat into small pieces.
7. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and well coated with the spice mixture.
8. Add the tomatoes with their juices and simmer for 1 hour.

To assemble:

1. Place the hot dogs in the buns and divide the chili among them.
2. Sprinkle the cheese over the chili.
3. Serve the onions, pickled jalapeños, and pepperoncini on the side.