There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of chili, especially when it’s packed with bold flavors that warm you from the inside out. The Chili Parlor Chili is a recipe that takes the classic dish to the next level, with a rich blend of spices and a surprising ingredient that might just become your new secret weapon in chili making—unsweetened cocoa powder. This chili has everything you want: a hearty beef base, a robust tomato presence, and a perfect balance of spices that gives it a kick without overpowering the dish. It’s the kind of chili that feels right at home in any season, whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or cozying up with a bowl on a chilly winter night.

The idea behind this recipe comes from the traditional chili you might find in an old-school chili parlor, but with a few modern twists. The addition of soy sauce and cocoa powder adds depth and umami, creating a chili that’s savory, slightly smoky, and just a bit complex. It’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Ground beef: 1 lb (use either 90/10 or 80/20, depending on your preference for leaner or more flavorful meat)
• Beef or chicken broth: 2 cups
• Tomato sauce or puree: 1/2 cup
• Chili powder: 1 tablespoon
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon
• Worcestershire sauce: 2 teaspoons
• Chili flakes: 2 teaspoons
• Paprika: 2 teaspoons
• Soy sauce: 2 teaspoons
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste

Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons

Preparation

Cook the Ground Beef:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat into small pieces.
2. Cook the beef for 3 to 5 minutes, until most of the pink has disappeared. The goal is to brown the beef slightly while still keeping it tender.

Add the Ingredients:

3. Pour in the beef or chicken broth and the tomato sauce or puree, stirring to combine.
4. Add the chili powder, unsweetened cocoa powder, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, paprika, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chili.

Simmer the Chili:

5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 35 to 40 minutes. Stir the chili frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. After 35 to 40 minutes, uncover the pot and taste the chili. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust any other seasonings if needed.

Serve:

7. Once the chili is perfectly seasoned, ladle it into bowls and enjoy. This chili is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with toppings like shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker chili, you can reduce the amount of broth or let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce these amounts.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a mix of beans for a hearty vegetarian chili.
• Serve it over rice or pasta for a heartier meal, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in advance? Yes, this chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can make it a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze leftover chili? Absolutely! Chili freezes very well. Just cool it completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. What can I use if I don’t have cocoa powder? If you don’t have cocoa powder, you can omit it, but it does add a nice depth of flavor. A small amount of instant coffee or espresso powder can be used as a substitute to provide a similar richness.

4. Is there a way to make this chili spicier? To make the chili spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. You can also add a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce.

 

The Chili Parlor Chili is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With its rich blend of spices and the unique addition of cocoa powder, it offers a depth of flavor that’s both surprising and satisfying. Serve it up with your favorite toppings or enjoy it on its own – either way, it’s a recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!