Smoky Ground Elk and Black Bean Chili Recipe

Name: Smoky Ground Elk and Black Bean Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Comfort
Ingredients: 900g ground elk meat; 90g bacon, finely chopped (adds healthy fat to lean elk); 150g yellow onion & 1 green bell pepper, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 425g black beans & 1 can red kidney beans, drained; 800g fire-roasted crushed tomatoes & 1 cup beef broth + 3 tbsp chili powder

Jump to Recipe Step-by-Step

Humble pantry staples can create an extraordinary Smoky Ground Elk and Black Bean Chili Recipe when treated with proper heat and technique. This recipe celebrates elk meat, bacon, finely and yellow onion & 1 green bell pepper, in under 55 min, providing a reliable, flavor-packed dish you will want to make again and again.

Ingredients

6 servings

2 lbs ground elk meat
3 slices bacon, finely chopped (adds healthy fat to lean elk)
1 large yellow onion & 1 green bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans & 1 can red kidney beans, drained
1 can (28 oz) fire-roasted crushed tomatoes & 1 cup beef broth + 3 tbsp chili powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a Dutch oven, crisp bacon over medium-high heat. Add ground elk and **brown for 6 to 8 minutes**, breaking into crumbles (do not drain bacon fat).

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook 4 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder for 1 minute.

Pour in fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and **simmer uncovered for 22 to 25 minutes** until thick and fragrant. Serve with cheddar and cornbread!

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Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips

Bacon Fat Keeps Elk Moist: Elk is 95%+ lean; adding 3 strips of diced bacon prevents dryness and adds smoky richness.
Touch of Cocoa Powder: A teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa enhances the earthy wild game flavor without tasting like chocolate.

1. Let the Meat Rest Before Slicing: Transfer cooked meat to a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before carving. Resting allows tight muscle fibers to relax and redistribute savory juices evenly throughout the cut. 2. Protect Minced Garlic from Burning: Garlic cooks and turns fragrant in just 30 to 45 seconds. Add it toward the end of sautéing onions or aromatics so it perfumes the dish without acquiring a bitter edge. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Bacon Fat Keeps Elk Moist: Elk is 95%+ lean; adding 3 strips of diced bacon prevents dryness and adds smoky richness.

Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs

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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes

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What if the Sauce for Smoky Ground Elk and Black Bean Chili Recipe Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.

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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines

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Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.

Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.

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Kitchen Notes & Discussion

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Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1 of 6)

340 Calories

28g Carbs 10% DV

38g Protein 76% DV

8g Fat 10% DV

7g Fiber 25% DV

620mg Sodium 27% DV

Carbs 33% Protein 45% Fat 22%

*Percent Daily Values (% DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie reference diet (USDA FoodData Central).

Quick Info

Cuisine Comfort
Dietary High Protein
Total Time 55 min
Yield 6 servings

Chef Amara

Passionate home cook & certified chef behind YumAroma. Every recipe is tested 3+ times for perfection.

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Smoky Ground Elk and Black Bean Chili Recipe

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crisp Bacon & Brown Ground Elk (10 Min)

Sauté Onions, Peppers & Spices (5 Min)