Deer Chili "Camp Style"
A hearty, smoky chili featuring venison and beef, rich with chili powder, Worcestershire, and beans, perfect for outdoor gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground venison and ground beef in a large covered pan.
- Add chopped onion and 2 tablespoons chili powder and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce and cook over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add chili beans and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Serve over toasted onion rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can substitute ground turkey for the venison or beef if desired, though the flavor will differ. If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of water or add additional tomato paste. Using Marilyn Lonsdale'S Famous Beans can enhance the flavor profile as well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili over toasted onion rolls for a satisfying meal. It pairs excellently with cornbread or a fresh green salad for balance. You might also enjoy it alongside The Best New York Firehouse Chili for a chili cook-off or casual gathering. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portioned containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deer Chili "Camp Style" contains roughly 173 calories, with 11g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1318mg per serving (57% 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 a different type of meat for this chili?
Yes, you can substitute the ground venison or beef with other types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork. Each will impart a different flavor, so choose according to your preference. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as leaner meats may require less time to cook.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, you can replace the ground meat with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Increase the amount of beans and add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and flavor. Adjust the seasonings as needed to complement the new ingredients.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If your chili turns out too spicy, you can balance the heat by adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to each bowl when serving. Additionally, incorporating a bit of sugar or honey can help mellow the spice. Adding more beans or tomatoes can dilute the heat as well.
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).