Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe

Diving into this bison chili is like embarking on a flavor journey that warms the soul and spices up the taste buds—get ready for a culinary adventure that’ll make your dinner guests beg for the recipe!

I adore making substantial and satisfying meals, and my Chipotle Bison Chili with Lime Crema is a nutrient-dense delight. With lean, finely ground bison providing a protein-packed punch as well as a luxe selection of vitamins and minerals, and with the riotous red and bold green of bell peppers as well as the audacious flavor of the chipotle pepper, this dish has got just the right sort of smokiness that I believe you will enjoy.

P.S. My lime crema is a cinch to whip up.

You don’t even need to use a blender.

Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe Ingredients

• Bison: Lean protein, lower in fat and calories than beef.
• Chipotle Peppers: Add smoky flavor and moderate heat.
• Garlic: Rich in antioxidants, boosts immune system.
• Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C, adds sweetness and crunch.
• Chili Powder: Provides depth of flavor, a mix of spices.
• Canned Tomatoes: Base of the chili, adds acidity and moisture.
• Beans (Kidney & Black): High in fiber, protein, and complex carbs.
• Lime Crema: Creamy, tangy finish with lime zest and juice.
• Cilantro: Adds bright, fresh, herbal notes to the dish.

Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground bison
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

How to Make this Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe

1. In a big pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground bison and cook it until it’s brown, breaking it apart with a spoon.

2. Put the chopped onion and minced garlic in the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.

3. Mix in the red and green bell peppers, and keep cooking until they soften.

4. Include the chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Ensure a hearty stir to achieve a well-blended mixture, letting loose the lovely fragrances of the spices.

5. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Simmer the mixture, then lower the heat to low. Cap the pot and allow it to simmer for about half an hour, giving it a stir now and then to prevent sticking.

7. Add the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Make sure the necessary salt and pepper are in there to make it all work.

8. As the chili cooks, make the lime crema. You need to prepare it in a small bowl. Take the sour cream and mix it with lime zest and lime juice. Use a whisk to combine until the mixture is smooth.

9. When the chili is complete, dish it out piping hot into bowls.

10. On top of every portion of the chili, place a dollop of lime crema and a light scattering of fresh cilantro. Relish the experience!

Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Can opener
8. Small bowl
9. Whisk
10. Ladle
11. Serving bowls

FAQ

• Q: Can I make this chili in advance?A: Yes, this chili can be made a day in advance. The flavors will develop even more, making it taste even better the next day.
• Q: Can I substitute ground bison?A: Definitely! If you can’t get bison, you can use ground beef or turkey instead.
• Q: How spicy is this chili?This chili has a spice level from the chipotle peppers and cayenne that I would call medium. To make it less spicy, use fewer of these ingredients; to make it more spicy, use more.
• Q: How should I serve the lime crema?A: Each serving of chili can be topped with lime crema, providing a fresh and zesty contrast to the spice.
• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?A: Yes, the chili can be frozen successfully. Store the chili in an airtight container. It can safely remain in the freezer for three months. The lime crema, however, should be made fresh. It should be made just before serving.
• Q: What toppings pair well with this chili?A: Some toppings that I think work really well are sliced avocado, shredded cheese, diced red onion, and even more chopped cilantro than I usually use.
• Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?A: Absolutely, this chili has no gluten in it. Just make sure that any especially handled items you buy are certified gluten-free. That goes for the ingredients of the National Park Service. And for the people who cook for you. If any of them is serving up handled items that have gluten in them, they are not preparing gluten-free chili. Period.

Chipolte Bison Chili With Lime Crema Recipe Substitutions and Variations

1 tablespoon olive oil. Use: Avocado oil or vegetable oil.
1 pound ground bison: Substitute with ground beef or ground turkey.
Three cloves of garlic, minced. Substitute with half a teaspoon of garlic powder.
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped. For less heat, substitute with 1 teaspoon chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
1 cup sour cream: Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute.

Pro Tips

1. Bloom the Spices Before adding the crushed tomatoes and beans, allow the spices to bloom by cooking them with the bison and vegetables for a minute or two. This will enhance their flavors and add depth to the chili.

2. Char the Bell Peppers For additional flavor, briefly char the red and green bell peppers in a dry pan or over a flame before adding them to the pot. This can impart a subtle smoky flavor to the chili.

3. Adjust the Heat If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chipotle peppers. For extra heat, consider adding an additional chipotle pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

4. Use Homemade Broth If possible, use homemade beef broth for a richer flavor compared to store-bought versions. It can make a noticeable difference in the depth of taste in your chili.

5. Rest Before Serving Allow the chili to sit covered off the heat for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste.