Ingredients:

1.5 pounds ground bison

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 bell peppers (any color), diced

2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 cup beef or bison broth

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish

Sour cream, for garnish

Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Jalapeño slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sear Bison:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground bison and cook until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

Add diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and chopped jalapeños to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

3. Spice it Up:

Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground coriander, and cocoa powder to the pot. Stir well to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices.

4. Build the Chili:

Pour in crushed tomatoes, beef or bison broth, black beans, kidney beans, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Simmer and Cook:

Bring the chili to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more chili powder or spices for depth of flavor.

7. Serve:

Ladle the Bison Chili into bowls.

Garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and jalapeño slices.

Optional Tips:

If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Serve over a bed of rice or with cornbread for a complete meal.

For an extra layer of richness, stir in a tablespoon of unsweetened chocolate or a square of dark chocolate.