She Strengthens

Wild Game Chili: A Hearty Twist on a Classic

Imagine a rich, bold chili that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night or a festive gathering. This recipe, inspired by Chef Michael Mina’s Handle Bar restaurant in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, combines the savory flavors of elk, beans, tomatoes, and spices with a surprising hint of dark chocolate.

The Perfect Make-Ahead Dish

Like all stews, this chili improves with time, making it an ideal dish to prepare ahead of schedule. Simply refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.

A Flavorful Blend of Ingredients

This recipe brings together an array of flavors and textures, including:

• 4 strips of crispy bacon
• 5 pounds of ground elk or lean beef chuck
• A blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, ancho chile powder, and smoked paprika
• 2 medium yellow onions and 6 cloves of garlic for added depth
• 4 cups of brewed coffee for a rich, velvety texture
• 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate for a surprising twist
• 2 cans of crushed tomatoes and 3 chipotles in adobo sauce for a spicy kick
• 2 cans of kidney beans for protein and fiber
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Garnish with Flair

Top your chili with a variety of garnishes, including:

• 10 ounces of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of thinly sliced scallions
• 1 1/2 cups of sour cream
• Crunchy Fritos for a fun textural element

Cooking Instructions

To prepare this hearty chili, follow these steps:

1. Brown the Bacon: Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat until the fat renders, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Meat: Add the ground elk or beef and brown over medium-high heat, about 8 minutes.
3. Mix in the Spices: Stir in the brown sugar, cumin, ancho chile powder, chili powder, paprikas, coriander, and measured salt. Cook until the spices are fragrant and deep brown in color, about 10 minutes.
4. Soften the Onions: Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are just beginning to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the Liquid: Stir in the coffee, chocolate, tomatoes, chipotles, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours.
6. Add the Beans: Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.