Jackie'S Venison Chili
A hearty venison chili packed with bold flavors, perfect for cold evenings or game night, appealing to those who enjoy rich, spicy, and meaty comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground venison, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and crushed garlic in a large pot.
- Add the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili mix, chili powder, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the two cans of beans to the chili and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. If ground venison isn't available, ground beef or turkey can be substituted. Feel free to adjust the level of chili powder to suit your heat preference. You can also incorporate other vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with a side of cornbread, like Squash And Pepper Cornbread, for a comforting meal. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions enhance the dish. This chili is perfect for gatherings and pairs well with homemade Party Sausages for a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture, and heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jackie'S Venison Chili contains roughly 252 calories, with 13g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1028mg per serving (45% 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 make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
What beans work best in this chili?
Popular choices include kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans. You can use canned beans for convenience or cook dried beans ahead of time. Just be sure to rinse canned beans before adding them to the chili to reduce sodium content.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground venison with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add more beans and vegetables to enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it hearty and satisfying.
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).