Spicy and Savory Chili with Chorizo and a Hint of Chocolate

This hearty chili recipe combines the smoky flavors of chorizo sausage with savory beans and a touch of chocolate for a unique twist. Packed with spices and slow-cooked to perfection, this chili is sure to warm you up on a cold winter night. It's an easy and delicious one-pot meal that you can serve with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and avocado. Try this recipe for a comforting and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz chorizo sausage, casing removed
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, green onions, cilantro

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and chorizo sausage over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces with a spoon while cooking.
2. Once the meat is browned, add the diced onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), cocoa powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. After 1 hour, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. At this point, you can also add more chili powder or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
6. Let the chili simmer uncovered for another 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
7. Serve the chili hot in bowls topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
8. Enjoy your spicy and savory chili with chorizo and chocolate!

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