Venison chili offers a rich, hearty twist on the classic comfort dish, combining the deep, earthy flavor of wild game with the warmth of slow-simmered spices. Its robust profile stands out with tender chunks of venison that absorb the bold seasonings, creating a savory experience that’s both satisfying and energizing. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared around a campfire, venison chili evokes a sense of rustic adventure while still offering the comfort of a well-loved meal. It’s perfect for those who crave a dish with a bit of wildness, providing a unique take on a traditional favorite.

Venison Chili

Venison chili is a flavorful, hearty variation of the traditional chili, using venison as its lean, tender meat base. Known for its rich, earthy taste, this chili combines the bold flavors of spices with the natural depth of wild game.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 30

Course Main Course, Soup, Stew

Cuisine American

Servings 7

Calories 802 kcal

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 red onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons dark brown sugar
3 cups red wine
4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon chili powder
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
salt to taste
4 tablespoons canola oil
10 slices cooked bacon, diced
2 pounds venison stew meat, trimmed and finely diced
2 cups black beans, cooked and drained

Instructions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the brown sugar and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes. Next, pour in the red wine, vinegar, and tomato paste, followed by the chicken stock, cumin, cayenne, chili powder, cilantro, and salt. Let the mixture simmer for 30-35 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half, intensifying the flavors.
While the sauce is simmering, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook for 3-4 minutes until crispy. Push the bacon to one side of the skillet and add the venison to the other side, seasoning it with salt. Sauté the venison for about 15 minutes, browning it thoroughly. Once browned, stir in the cooked beans and mix everything together. Transfer the entire mixture into the simmering pot to combine with the sauce.
Stir everything together well and allow it to simmer for an additional 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the dish thicken.