Absolutely! Smoking chili is one of the best ways to add depth and complexity to this classic dish. Instead of cooking chili solely on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, you can transfer it to a smoker or Dutch oven set up in a smoker. The key is to cook it "low and slow" at a consistent temperature, allowing the smoky flavor from the wood to penetrate every ingredient.

What is the best wood to smoke chili?

The best wood depends on your flavor preference: Hickory: The classic choice for chili, providing a bold, robust smoky flavor. Mesquite: Great for those who enjoy a stronger, earthier smoke. Be cautious not to overuse, as it can become overpowering. Applewood: Perfect for those who prefer a milder, slightly sweet smokiness. Cherry Wood: Similar to applewood but with a subtle fruity note.

How to get a smoky flavor in chili?

The smoky flavor in chili can be achieved through several methods: Using a Smoker: This is the most authentic way. Smoking the meat separately or smoking the entire chili in a Dutch oven provides deep, rich smoky notes. Liquid Smoke: A quick alternative for stovetop or oven-cooked chili. Just a few drops can replicate the smoky effect. Smoked Spices: Incorporate smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or ancho chili powder for an added kick of smokiness. Smoked Ingredients: Using smoked vegetables, sausages, or even smoked beef broth can layer the flavor.

How long does it take to smoke chiles?

Smoking chili typically takes 3-4 hours at a temperature of 250-300°F . Step 1: Smoke the ground beef or meat components separately for about 1.5-2 hours. Step 2: Smoke the chili base in a Dutch oven, stirring occasionally, for another 1.5-2 hours.

Smoked Chili Recipe

Description

This smoked chili recipe combines the hearty flavors of a classic chili with the smoky depth of slow-cooked ground beef and vegetables. Infused with bold spices and a secret touch of dark chocolate, it’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or as a comforting meal any time of the year. Easily customizable for dietary needs, this dish is a must-try for chili lovers!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 large onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 square (1 oz) dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Wood chips (hickory, applewood, or your choice)

Instructions

Prepare the Smoker Preheat your smoker to 250°F and soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes.
Cook the Base In a Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne, stirring for 1-2 minutes to release the aroma.
Add Liquid Ingredients Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer while you prepare the meat.
Smoke the Meat Form the ground beef into a large patty or small meatballs. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Place on the smoker grates and cook for 1.5-2 hours.
Combine and Smoke Crumble the smoked beef into the chili base. Place the Dutch oven in the smoker and cook uncovered for 1.5-2 hours, stirring every hour.
Finish with Chocolate Stir in the dark chocolate until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve Ladle into bowls and garnish with toppings of your choice (cheese, sour cream, avocado, etc.).

Notes

For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with smoked mushrooms or extra beans.
Add more beef broth if the chili becomes too thick during cooking.
For extra heat, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Smoked chili, smoked ground beef chili, hickory-smoked chili, homemade smoked chili, smoked beef chili recipe