Ingredients

1 -2 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
2 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
3 teaspoons cumin
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper ( optional )
2 cans crushed tomatoes
2 cans black beans , with liquid
1 can corn , drained & rinsed
2 -3 tomatoes , chopped
1 onion , diced
2 -3 chipotle peppers , seeded & minced
2 cups water
1 yellow squash or 1 zucchini , halved & chopped into bite-size pieces
1/2 bunch cilantro , minced
6 -8 epazote leaves , minced ( optional )
This Beefy Chipotle-Cocoa Chili is a twist on the classic comfort food, spiced up with smoky chipotle peppers and rich cocoa powder. Packed with protein and fiber, it's a hearty meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours. This recipe makes a large batch, so it's perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep throughout the week. It's also customizable to your tastes- make it spicier, add more vegetables, or use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This chili is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2.Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3.Add chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, cocoa powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (optional). Stir well to combine.
4.Add crushed tomatoes, black beans (with liquid), corn, chopped tomatoes, diced onion, and minced chipotle peppers. Stir well to combine.
5.Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes.
6.Add chopped yellow squash or zucchini, cilantro, and epazote leaves (optional). Stir well and let simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the squash or zucchini is cooked and the flavors have melded together.
7.Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or green onions.

PROS

This hearty chili is full of flavor and packed with protein from the lean ground beef and black beans.
The chipotle peppers add a smoky, spicy kick, while the cocoa powder gives it a subtle depth of flavor.
It’s a perfect choice for a cold winter night or a satisfying meal any time of the year.

CONS

This chili is high in sodium and calories, so it may not be the best option for those on a low-sodium or low-calorie diet.
It’s also not vegetarian or vegan-friendly, so it may not be suitable for those on a plant-based diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite its high sodium and calorie content, this chili contains several healthful ingredients. Lean ground beef is a great source of protein, while black beans are high in fiber and other important nutrients like iron and magnesium. The tomatoes and squash are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while the chipotle peppers may have anti-inflammatory properties.

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