Rustic Bison Chili

Using lean bison and an aromatic assortment of spices this recipe was offered by the National Bison Association of Denver, CO as a marketing tool in 1998. I picked up the recipe card at a local organic meat co-op. It is a family favorite now. Great for a snowy day. Freezes well for ski or snowmobile trips.

• Ready In: 1 hr 20 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1  lb  ground buffalo meat
• 1  cup onion (chopped)
• 2  teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1  cup green pepper (chopped)
• 3  tablespoons chili powder
• 2  teaspoons cocoa powder
• 2  teaspoons salt
• 1  teaspoon oregano (crush in palm of hand)
• 1  teaspoon cinnamon
• 1  teaspoon cumin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1⁄4 teaspoon allspice
• 2 (14 1/2ounce) cans tomatoes with juice (chopped or crushed or diced)
• 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1  cup water
• 1 (7 ounce) can diced green chilies

Directions

1. Coat the surface of a large pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Saute meat and stir to crumble for 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and pepper; cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Mix into the meat mixture; chili powder, cocoa powder, salt, oregano, cinnamon, cumin, pepper, allspice and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, water, and chilies.
6. Stir and simmer for 60 minutes.
7. Serve with shredded cheese and warmed tortillas.