Venison Chili Con Carne
A hearty venison chili con carne packed with bold spices, beans, and tomatoes, perfect for a comforting meal that appeals to game meat lovers and chili enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground venison with chopped onion and minced garlic in bacon fat until browned.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well.
- Add salt, pepper, chili powder, and canned tomatoes and tomato puree. Simmer for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the venison in a cast iron skillet. You can substitute ground beef or turkey if venison is unavailable. Adjust the chili powder to your preferred heat level; adding a dash of cayenne can spice it up. For a thicker chili, add extra kidney beans or reduce the liquid further. This dish also pairs well with cornbread or over rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the venison chili in bowls topped with shredded cheese, diced onions, or sour cream for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. You can also serve it with a fresh salad on the side, like Hidden Valley Hot Potato Salad, for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venison Chili Con Carne contains roughly 494 calories, with 33g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (120% of the Daily Value), iron (72% of the Daily Value), and protein (67% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2383mg per serving (104% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook this venison chili in a slow cooker. Brown the venison, onions, and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a delicious, slow-cooked flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of chili powder you use. The base recipe is mildly spicy, but you can easily increase the heat by adding more chili powder or including jalapeños. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less chili powder and taste as you go.
What can I serve with venison chili?
This venison chili pairs well with various sides, such as cornbread, rice, or even over baked potatoes. You can also offer toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream to enhance the dish. For a lighter option, serve it with a green salad or enjoy it with a side of Jean Nickel'S Baked Beans.
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).