This Chili Parlor Chili is a unique and incredibly flavorful chili recipe, known for its deep, savory taste with a hint of sweetness from cocoa powder. Unlike a traditional chili with beans, this recipe focuses on a rich meat sauce, making it perfect for serving in a bowl or as a topping for hot dogs and other dishes.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground beef (90/10 or 80/20) | 1 lbs |
| Beef or chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Tomato sauce or puree | ½ 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 | ½ teaspoon |
| Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1 lb ground beef. Use a spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until most of the pink is gone.
- Add Ingredients & Simmer: Add the 2 cups beef or chicken broth, ½ cup tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons chili flakes, 2 teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir everything well to combine.
- Cook the Chili: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to a low flame. Cover the pot and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom.
- Season & Serve: Season the chili with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy! This chili is delicious on its own or as a topping for other dishes.
