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Dr Pepper and Chocolate Chili

A deliciously bold and cozy chili made with a mix of beans, ground meat, Dr Pepper, and a hint of dark chocolate, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chili
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey 85% lean beef or dark meat turkey works best for rich flavor.
  • 1 large onion, chopped Sweat until golden for the base flavor.
  • 2 cans low sodium canned pinto beans, rinsed Pinto beans add creaminess.
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed Adds a nice bite.
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes Base for the chili sauce.
  • 12 oz Dr Pepper Provides sweetness and complexity.
  • 1 oz dark chocolate Use 60-70% cocoa for best results.
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika Toasted spices add depth.
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste at the end.
  • 1 sq lime, for serving Adds brightness.
For the Toppings
  • sour cream or Greek yogurt Cool and creamy contrast.
  • chopped cilantro or scallions Adds freshness.
  • sliced jalapeños or hot sauce Adjust heat level.
  • shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack) For a savory finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Brown the meat in a large pot until it picks up color.
  2. Sweat the onions until they become golden.
  3. Toast the spices (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika) until they smell nutty.
  4. Deglaze the pot with a splash of Dr Pepper.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the remaining Dr Pepper.
Cooking
  1. Add the rinsed beans to the pot.
  2. Simmer the chili for at least 45 minutes to 90 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  3. If the chili is too thin, leave the lid off and simmer until it thickens to your liking.
  4. Just before serving, melt the dark chocolate into the pot for added richness.

Notes

Chili is even better the day after cooking. Cool and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Adjust flavors at the end with lime or a pinch of sugar if needed.