Description

This easy Carnivore Chili recipe is a hearty, protein-packed dish featuring smoked turkey bacon, ground beef, and a blend of plant-based spices. It offers bold, savory flavors and a rich, warming texture perfect for family meals or any night craving a satisfying, customizable chili.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Base Ingredients

6 oz smoked turkey bacon, diced
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato and Liquid Base

2 tbsp natural tomato paste
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Spices and Seasonings

2 tbsp plant-based chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika (natural)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

1 fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, garlic, and jalapeño if using. Dice the smoked turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced smoked turkey bacon and cook until it becomes slightly crispy and fragrant, rendering its smoky fat to create a flavorful base for the chili.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot with the turkey bacon. Brown thoroughly while breaking it up with a spoon for a nicely crumbled texture that will mix well with the other ingredients.
Sauté the Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onions, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook until they soften and release their natural sweetness, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Sprinkle in chili powder, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine, then mix in the tomato paste to coat the meat and aromatics, building a rich, vibrant base.
Pour in the Liquids: Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.
Simmer and Develop Flavors: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the texture to thicken perfectly.
Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra spices as desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality ground beef and smoked turkey bacon for the best flavor.
Allow at least 30 minutes simmering time to fully develop flavors and thicken chili naturally.
Add jalapeño or chili powder gradually to control spice level to your preference.
A pinch of smoked paprika (natural) enhances smokiness without overpowering.
A splash of apple cider vinegar brightens and balances the rich meat flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Carnivore Chili, chili recipe, smoked turkey bacon chili, ground beef chili, hearty chili, protein-packed chili, meaty chili, plant-based spices chili