Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ground bison meat
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (14 ounces) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1 tablespoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground bison meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This step is crucial since it develops deep flavors in the chili.
2. Add diced onions, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they become slightly softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano over the meat and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly, allowing the spices to release their aromatic bouquet.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Give it a good stir, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent the bottom from sticking. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld together, creating a robust and complex chili.
6. As the chili slowly cooks, you’ll notice your kitchen being filled with a tantalizing aroma. The moment of truth arrives as you taste it. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and the teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
7. Once the chili has reached your desired flavor, ladle it into bowls and serve piping hot with a side of cornbread. The contrast between the tender, rich chili and the slightly sweet cornbread is nothing short of divine.

Tips and Variations:

• For a smokier flavor, you can add a few dashes of liquid smoke during the browning process.
• Customize your chili by incorporating additional seasonings like chipotle powder or even a hint of cinnamon.
• If bison meat is not readily available, you can substitute it with lean ground beef or even ground turkey.
• To add some texture, consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro.

Conclusion:

Bison Chili not only warms our bellies but also connects us with the adventurous spirit of the American frontier. As you savor each spoonful, take a moment to appreciate the history and resilience of those who braved the Wild West. This recipe captures the essence of that era, making it a cherished delicacy that embodies the spirit of exploration and the rustic flavors that have stood the test of time. So gather your loved ones, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy a steaming bowl of Bison Chili – a taste of Americana that will forever hold a special place in your heart.