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.

Enjoy your Hearty Wyoming Bison Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete, satisfying meal.