Ultimate Chili Experiment
A bold, smoky chili that blends unexpected flavors like coffee, dark chocolate, and apple butter for a deep, complex taste. The fish sauce and soy sauce add a savory umami punch while fire‑roasted tomatoes bring sweet heat, creating a daring twist on classic chili.
Maker: Food52
From: Instagram(view original)
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Ingredients
- 1 cup coffee
- 1 cup dark chocolate
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 cup beer
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- a handful chilies
- 1 cup fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 cup dried mushrooms
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple butter
Instructions
- 11. In a small saucepan, bring the coffee to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 2 minutes to concentrate its flavor; set aside.
- 22. While the coffee simmers, place the dried mushrooms in a bowl and cover with hot water; let them soak for 15 minutes, then drain and roughly chop.
- 33. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium‑high heat and add a splash of oil; once shimmering, add the mixed chilies and sauté for 2‑3 minutes until fragrant.
- 44. Stir in the chopped dark chocolate, letting it melt completely into the chili base, creating a glossy, dark sauce.
- 55. Add the fire‑roasted tomatoes, soaked mushrooms, cinnamon, fish sauce, soy sauce, and apple butter; mix well to combine all aromatics.
- 66. Pour in the brewed coffee and the cup of beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits; bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- 77. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 88. After 45 minutes, uncover and increase the heat to medium; continue to simmer for an additional 10‑15 minutes until the sauce thickens to a hearty consistency.
- 99. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add a pinch more salt, a dash of extra soy sauce, or a splash of beer for brightness.
- 1010. Remove the pot from heat and let the chili rest for 5 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld further.
- 1111. Serve the Ultimate Chili Experiment hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese if desired.
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Frequently asked questions
- How long does it take to make Ultimate Chili Experiment?
- About 1 hour 10 minutes in total: 10 minutes of prep and 1 hour of cooking.
- How many servings does this Ultimate Chili Experiment recipe make?
- This recipe makes 4 servings as written; ingredient quantities on this page can be scaled.
- Where does this Ultimate Chili Experiment recipe come from?
- It was shared by Food52 on instagram.com. ReelsMeals structured the original post into this step-by-step card; the original is linked above.