Smoky Turkey Chili with Cocoa
This turkey chili is a hearty dish that combines lean ground turkey with smoky spices, diced tomatoes, black beans, and a hint of cocoa for depth. It’s cooked slowly to develop rich flavors and a thick, comforting texture, finished with a vibrant, spice-laden broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, it offers a cozy yet flavorful experience in every bowl.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- can opener
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground turkey lean
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes preferably fire-roasted
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cocoa powder unsweetened
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and tools before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering.
- Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 5 minutes. The onions should be soft and slightly caramelized, filling the air with a sweet aroma.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, listening for a sizzling sound and smelling the aromatic garlic.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until it loses its pink color and begins to brown, about 8 minutes. It should be evenly browned with some caramelized bits sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa powder, then stir well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Cook for 2 minutes until the spices are aromatic and slightly toasted.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, and add the drained black beans and vegetable broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chili thickens slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional spices if needed. Let it sit for 5 minutes off the heat to allow flavors to settle.
- Serve the hot chili in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream for an extra touch of comfort and flavor.
