Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili: A Robust and Flavorful Meal

This Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for a cold day. Packed with protein-rich bison meat, beans, and a variety of spices, this chili is sure to warm you up and tantalize your taste buds. Bison is leaner than beef, making this chili a healthier alternative without sacrificing any flavor. Serve with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground bison meat
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil.
2. Add the ground bison meat to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the cooked bison and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Return the bison meat to the pot. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices bloom.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir until well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken.
7. Add the kidney beans in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Ensure they are heated through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve the chili hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped cilantro.