Award Winning Chuck Wagon Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the spirit of the Old West to your table. Packed with tender chunks of beef and pork, a rich and complex blend of spices, and a touch of dark chocolate, this chili recipe has earned its reputation as a prize-winning favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family, this chili is sure to satisfy your craving for a comforting and robust meal.

The history of chuck wagon chili can be traced back to the cattle drives of the American West during the late 19th century. Cowboys relied on hearty and portable meals that could be cooked over open fires during their long journeys. Chili, made with affordable cuts of beef and spices, became a staple dish on these cattle drives. The chuck wagon, a mobile kitchen used to feed the cowboys, was where this iconic chili was prepared.

Over time, chili recipes evolved, and variations emerged across different regions. The Chuck Wagon Chili recipe has gained acclaim for its bold flavors and winning combination of ingredients. It has won numerous awards at chili cook-offs and is known for its rich and satisfying taste.

The secret to the exceptional flavor of this chili lies in the careful selection of spices, the combination of beef and pork for added richness, and the unexpected addition of grated dark chocolate, which adds depth and complexity to the dish. The result is a chili that strikes the perfect balance between smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.

Award Winning Chuck Wagon Chili continues to be a beloved dish, cherished for its connection to cowboy culture and the enduring spirit of the American West.

PREP: 30 MIN.

COOK: 80 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 pounds), cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 pound pork stew meat, cut into ½-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup chili powder, divided
• 4 tablespoons canola oil, divided
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 celery rib, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped canned green chilies
• 1 carton (32 ounces) beef broth
• ¾ cup beer
• ¾ cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons grated dark chocolate
• 3 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sprinkle the beef and pork cubes with half of the chili powder.
2. In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium heat. Brown the beef and pork in batches, then drain and set aside.
3. In the same Dutch oven, sauté the finely chopped onion and celery in the remaining 2 tablespoons of canola oil until they become crisp-tender.
4. Add the minced garlic, chopped canned green chilies, and the remaining chili powder to the Dutch oven. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the beef broth, beer, tomato sauce, grated dark chocolate, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, and the browned beef and pork cubes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the chili, uncovered, for 1 to 1½ hours or until the meat is tender, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the Award Winning Chuck Wagon Chili piping hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this delicious cowboy-inspired chili.