Bear Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili featuring tender bear meat, robust spices, and beans, perfect for outdoor cookouts or cozy family dinners with a smoky, savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the bear meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Brown the meat in oil in a large pot.
- Add 2 cups of water, oregano, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and diced pimentos. Bring to a boil and simmer slowly for 2 1/2 hours.
- Stir in flour and the canned kidney and red beans.
- Simmer for an additional 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tender chili, consider marinating the bear meat in the spices overnight. If bear meat is not available, high-quality beef or venison can be excellent substitutes. Adjust the spices according to your heat preference, and feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and nutrition. This dish can also benefit from a splash of vinegar or lime juice just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bear Chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or shredded cheese for added richness. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. For a refreshing drink, complement the meal with Open House Punch (Makes 32 Four Ounce Drinks). This hearty dish also goes well with a simple salad or sautéed squash for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. For longer storage, consider freezing the chili in portions, which can last up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bear Chili contains roughly 985 calories, with 44g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (115% of the Daily Value), and protein (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat in this chili?
Yes, you can substitute bear meat with beef, venison, or even bison. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the meat you choose, so adjust accordingly to ensure tenderness.
Is this chili spicy?
The level of spiciness largely depends on the amount of chili powder you use. If you prefer a milder chili, start with less chili powder and taste as you go, adding more if desired. You can also remove seeds from the pimentos for less heat.
How can I make this chili healthier?
To lighten the dish, you can use leaner cuts of meat or reduce the amount of oil used for browning. Incorporating more beans and vegetables will also boost nutrition while keeping the dish satisfying. Consider browsing more vegan recipes for alternative chili options.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).