Satisfy Your Taste Buds with Venison Chili Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring chili recipe? Are you looking for a hearty meal that will satisfy your taste buds while warming you up on a cold winter night? Look no further than this crock pot venison chili recipe. As a culinary explorer, I have traveled the world in search of the perfect dish, and this recipe brings together savory spices, tender meat, and rich tomato sauce for a truly unforgettable meal.
But what is venison chili exactly? Venison is deer meat, known for its lean texture and robust flavor. When combined with the smoky heat of chili powder, the sweetness of tomatoes and corn, and the satisfying bite of red kidney beans, it creates a unique and irresistible flavor profile. And the best part? This recipe doesn’t require any fancy culinary skills – all you need is a slow cooker or crock pot and a few key ingredients.
Whether you are an avid hunter with an abundance of venison in your freezer or simply looking to try something new in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to experience a taste sensation unlike any other with this crock pot venison chili recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Listen up, fellow foodies – this crock pot venison chili recipe is something you don’t want to miss out on. As someone who has tried dozens of chili recipes, I have to tell you that this one is exceptional.
First and foremost: the meat. Venison is a game changer (pun intended) when it comes to chili. The rich, earthy flavor of the meat truly takes this dish to the next level. Plus, using a slow cooker means that the meat will be unbelievably tender and flavorful.
But let’s not forget about the other ingredients – onion, green bell pepper, diced tomatoes with green chilies, kidney beans…the combination of flavors and textures is truly unbeatable. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, go ahead and add in some Tabasco sauce for an extra kick.
Perhaps my favorite thing about this recipe is how customizable it is. Don’t have venison? No problem – swap in ground beef or turkey instead. Want to make it spicier? Add in some additional chili powder or jalapeños. The possibilities are endless.
Not only that, but this chili is also incredibly versatile. Serve it up with some corn bread or over rice for a hearty meal. Or bring it to your next potluck or game day gathering – I guarantee it will be a hit.
So what are you waiting for? Give this crock pot venison chili recipe a try and thank me later.
Ingredient List
Gather your ingredients and let’s start preparing this mouthwatering Crock Pot Venison Chili. Here is what you’ll need for this recipe:
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1 pound ground venison: Use fresh, high-quality meat that is lean with minimal fat. This will ensure a tender texture and a rich flavor.
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1 onion, diced: Choose a large onion that is firm and free of blemishes. It will add natural sweetness and tanginess to your chili.
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1 green bell pepper, diced: Look for a firm pepper with smooth skin and vivid color. It will bring freshness and crunchiness to the chili.
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15 oz can dark red kidney beans: Canned beans are an easy time-saving option but be sure to rinse them thoroughly in cold water before using.
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15 oz can red kidney beans: The combination of two types of beans adds different textures and flavors to the chili.
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15 oz can diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes work great in this recipe but if you prefer fresh ones, go ahead and chop them up.
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15 oz can tomato sauce: Thick tomato sauce binds all the ingredients together giving your chili a deep rich flavor.
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4 oz can chopped green chilies: Green chilies provide mild spiciness and earthy flavor to your dish.
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1 cup frozen corn: If you don’t have fresh corn, then frozen corn is always an excellent substitute.
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½ cup chunky salsa: Salsa gives chili an extra kick of heat so choose mild or spicy according to personal preference.
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2 tbsp chili powder: Make sure it’s fresh for the best taste results.
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 bay leaves
Don’t forget the essential oils such as olive oil, which we’ll need for cooking!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all of our ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to dive into the recipe how-to. Get your slow cooker or crock pot ready as we’re about to start cooking our delicious venison chili.
Step 1: Brown the Venison
First, we need to brown the venison. Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the venison to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned on all sides. This will ensure that our chili has a nice depth of flavor.
Step 2: Saute the Onion and Peppers
Once your venison is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker or crock pot. In the same skillet that you cooked your venison in, turn down the heat to medium and add chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic.
Saute for about 3-5 minutes until they are slightly soft. Then, add them to your slow cooker or crock pot.
Step 3: Add in the Rest of the Ingredients
Now it’s time to add in all of the other ingredients. First pour in a can of diced tomatoes, a can of tomato sauce, a can of crushed tomatoes with green chilies, two cans of drained and rinsed kidney beans (one dark red, one regular), and a half cup of frozen corn.
After adding those ingredients, sprinkle in essential spices (that will give our chili an added kick): two tablespoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of Tabasco sauce, and two bay leaves.
Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Cook for Hours
Lastly, cook your chili on low for 6-8 hours (our best bet would be around 7hrs!). Set it and forget it! Let all those flavors meld together nicely with little attention paid after initially getting all ingredients mixed evenly through then chillout till dinner time at least!
The wait will surely be worth it when you take your first bite; it will taste heavenly!
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to cooking, experimentation can lead to some delicious discoveries. Don’t be afraid to switch up the ingredients in this crock pot venison chili recipe to suit your taste buds. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:
– Meat: While venison is amazing in this recipe, you could use ground beef, turkey or chicken for a different taste.
– Beans: Ditch the red kidney beans if they’re not your thing, and try substituting them with black beans or pinto beans instead.
– Heat level: If you prefer a spicier kick to your chili, add more chili powder or Tabasco sauce. On the other hand, if you can’t handle the heat, omit the green chilies and cut back on the chili powder.
– Veggies: Feel free to add in extra diced vegetables like carrots, zucchini or mushrooms. You could also swap out the green bell pepper with red or yellow peppers for a pop of color.
– Corn: Some people may not enjoy frozen corn in their chili. In that case, ditch it altogether or replace it with canned corn.
Remember, cooking is an art – so experiment until you find the perfect combination of flavors that leave your belly and soul happy. Be sure not to overdo it with too many substitutions so that your meal still somewhat resembles the original recipe.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your crockpot venison chili has been slow-cooked to perfection and is ready to be served, you may find yourself wondering how best to enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish. Fortunately, there are a few tried-and-true ways to serve and pair venison chili that will leave your tastebuds singing.
Firstly, many people enjoy serving venison chili as-is in a bowl, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even some freshly-chopped herbs such as cilantro or parsley. For an added crunch and texture, consider adding a handful of crushed tortilla chips on top.
Another popular option is to spoon the chili onto a bed of white or brown rice. The rice will help tone down the spiciness of the dish while also adding a filling element to the meal. You can also serve the chili over toasted bread for an open-faced sandwich-style plate.
No matter how you choose to serve it, be sure to have plenty of crackers or cornbread on hand for dipping and scooping up every last bit of this savory stew.
When it comes to pairing beverages with your venison chili, there are plenty of options as well. Many people opt for pairing this spicy dish with crisp beer such as Hefeweizen or pilsner, as they offer a nice cold counterpoint to the warm hearty chili. If you prefer wine instead, red wine such as Malbec or Zinfandel would make for great options.
Overall, serving and pairing your crockpot venison chili is all about personal preference – whether you go for something classic like cornbread and beer or venture into new territory with unusual pairings like wine or even coffee!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Cooking up a pot of mouth-watering venison chili is the perfect preparation for a crowd, a party or a family gathering. With most batches yielding enough for eight to ten people, you may end up with more than you need to satisfy your palate. So, what do you do with the leftover chili? Save and store it properly for later use, of course!
To make-ahead and store venison chili, use an airtight container or ziplock bags to seal the chili carefully. Once you have bagged it, this fantastic dish can last up to four days in the fridge or up to six months in the freezer. Before freezing chili though, let it cool down then remove any air pockets from your storage containers, then label and date them so that you can easily identify what’s in each bag when it’s time to serve.
If you’re planning on reheating the leftover venison chili then you’re in luck. This delicious recipe only improves with age as its flavors continue to blend and deepen, making it even more satisfying with each reheat. You can either microwave it on low power or reheat it over the stove at a low temperature.
One thing to keep in mind is not to overcook the chili when reheating as this will cause the flavors to dissipate and lead to unfavorable results. If you keep the heat at medium to low intensity, this should help ensure that your leftovers come out warm and tasty.
So go ahead and cook up a big batch of venison chili. Store your leftovers carefully and enjoy this delicious dish for several days after your initial serving!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to cooking venison chili, there’s always room for improvement. Here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way that will help you achieve the perfect batch of crockpot venison chili every time.
First, make sure to brown your meat properly. In order to get that deep, rich flavor, it’s essential to sear your ground venison on medium-high heat in a large skillet. Don’t overcrowd the meat and be sure to season it with salt and pepper before browning. Once it’s nicely browned, transfer it to your slow cooker.
Next, don’t overcook the chili. Venison is leaner than beef, which means it can easily become tough and dry if cooked too long. Keep an eye on the chili and aim for a cooking time of around 6-8 hours on low heat in your crockpot.
Another tip is to add some acidity to balance out the flavors. I recommend adding a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and some tomato sauce to your chili recipe. Alternatively, you could also add a tablespoon or so of vinegar or lime juice to give it a tangy kick.
Don’t forget about seasoning! For a traditional flavor, use chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. If you prefer a spicier version, add some Tabasco sauce or extra chili powder. And always remember to taste your chili as you go along – you can always adjust the seasonings as needed.
Finally, consider adding some frozen corn or chopped bell peppers for color and texture. This will add some interest to the dish and give guests something else to chew on besides just meat and beans. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different kinds of beans – dark red kidney beans work well in venison chili too!
By following these tips for perfect results, you’ll achieve venison chili perfection every time.
FAQ
Now that you know how to prepare this mouth-watering crock pot venison chili, you might still have some lingering questions. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about this recipe. So, keep reading to learn more and be confident enough to make perfect venison chili slow-cooked in your own kitchen.
How do you make venison chili less gamey?
When preparing game meat, there are a couple of techniques that can be used to improve its taste and texture. A popular method is to soak the meat in milk for a few hours before cooking. This not only helps to tenderize the meat but also reduces the gamey flavor. Another approach is to incorporate an acid source into the cooking process, like red wine or vinegar. This way, some of the gamey taste is eliminated, resulting in delicious meat. Keep in mind these strategies when preparing game meat to elevate its flavor and texture to the next level.
Do you have to brown meat before slow cooker chili?
According to a culinary expert, while it’s not mandatory to brown or caramelize meat before adding it to a slow cooker, doing so can significantly enhance the flavor and overall quality of the end product. The expert suggests that the caramelized exterior of the meat can add depth and richness to the final dish.
What’s the best meat to put in chili?
In the meat department, there are several options to pick from when it comes to selecting beef. Ground beef (80/20) and ground sirloin (90/10) make great choices for recipes that require minced meat. For dishes like burgers or meatballs, brisket or short ribs can add a rich flavor and juicy texture. Tri-tip sirloin is perfect for stir-fries or fajitas due to its tenderness. For a varied preparation, try collaborating with your butcher to get meats at varying textures. You may even consider using various animals to tone your recipe’s flavor. To add depth and interest to your dishes, try using grass-fed and finished beef.
Is it possible to overcook chili in a slow cooker?
It’s possible to overcook chili in a crockpot, resulting in dry and tough meat and mushy vegetables. However, there’s no need to be alarmed if you leave your chili cooking for too long.
Bottom Line
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In conclusion, this crockpot venison chili recipe is one of the best venison chili recipes you will ever try. It has a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds from the very first bite. This recipe is easy to follow and yields perfect results, every time.
With the convenience of slow cooker technology, this chili recipe can be prepared with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. It’s ideal for feeding large groups or making meal prep easier for the week.
So, whether you’re a hunting enthusiast or just someone who enjoys homemade chili, give this crockpot venison chili recipe a try. And don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to recipe.
Remember, substitutions and variations are always welcome in the world of cooking. So, feel free to experiment with different ingredients and methods to customize this venison chili recipe to your liking.
In conclusion, I urge you to give this crockpot venison chili recipe a chance. I guarantee that once you try it, you won’t regret it. So fire up your slow cooker, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy some delicious venison chili!
Crock Pot Venison Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground venison (deer)
- 1 (15 ounce) can dark red kidney beans
- 1 (15 ounce) can light red kidney beans
- 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa (I use Pace Picante in Medium)
- 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 3/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed, drained
- 2 tablespoons A.1. Original Sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
- 1/4 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Brown venison, until there is just a little tiny bit of pink still. This keeps the venison from getting tough, since it is super lean.
- add to crock pot with all remaining ingredients.
- cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- stir before serving, top with shredded cheddar or mexican cheese.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.