Get ready to warm up your kitchen with a bowl of Uncle Buck's Venison Chili, a hearty dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and keep you cozy on those chilly nights! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich flavors of ground venison with a perfect blend of spices, making it a unique twist on the classic chili everyone loves. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Ready to dive into a delicious experience? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground venison
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and draining the kidney beans.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground venison and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the browned venison and sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the meat mixture, stirring to evenly distribute the spices and coat the meat.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the drained kidney beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let the chili simmer slowly for
- 5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let the chili rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Tips
- Choose Quality Venison: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ground venison. If you can, try to source it from a local butcher or farmer.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you like it spicy, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your chili an extra kick.
- Let It Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. If you have time, aim for that full 2 hours!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the garnishes! Topping your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
- Make It Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal throughout the week.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 287kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 83mg
