Easy Venison Chili Con Carne

Stacy Lyn Harris

Everyone has their favorite chili recipe, and this is my family's favorite. Venison chili adds a depth of flavor that is superior to other kinds of meats. President Johnson knew this and it is noted that he requested the cooks at the White House to use only venison for his chili. The corn mix in this recipe adds an earthy flavor and adds a texture that is perfect for Con Carne.

Ingredients (serves 6-8)

• 1, 16-ounce can of tomatoes, diced
• 3 teaspoons minced canned chipotle chili in adobe sauce
• 5 slices bacon, finely chopped
• 4 pounds venison stew meat, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeño chili, seeded and chopped
• 1 can kidney beans
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons around ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow corn mix

Note: Always make sure your venison is dry and the skillet is super hot before you brown the meat. Browning enhances the flavor of the dish by giving more depth of flavor.

Preparation

1. In a food processor, place tomatoes and chipotle chili puree until smooth. (This should only take about 10 seconds.) In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Transfer bacon to paper towel. Leave the fat in the pan.
2. Pat venison dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat the fat until smoking hot. Brown half of the venison. (Do no crowd the pan or the meat will steam instead of brown.) This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to bowl and repeat.
3. Add the olive oil, onions, and jalapeño to the Dutch oven and cook for about 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds. Stir in broth, tomato mixture and brown sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour. Uncover and simmer for about 30 minutes longer.
4. Ladle one cup chili liquid into medium-sized bowl and stir in yellow corn mix. Whisk mixture into chili and simmer until chili thickens. Check seasonings. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or cheese and jalapeño cornbread.

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