Black Bear Chili Recipe Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Serves: 6-8
Black Bear Chili

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds black bear meat, cubed (can substitute with beef if unavailable)

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1 large onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 bell pepper, diced

  • 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped

  • 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder

  • 1 tablespoon cumin powder

  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

  • 1 tablespoon oregano

  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed black bear meat and cook until browned on all sides. If using beef, cook until browned. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño peppers. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften.
3. Return the browned meat to the pot and add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Add chili powder, cumin powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cocoa powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir again to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it gently simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. After 2 hours, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the beans and thicken the chili.
7. Serve the black bear chili hot in bowls. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful black bear chili with your favorite bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal on a chilly winter evening. Remember to use caution when sourcing and cooking black bear meat, ensuring it is legally and responsibly harvested.