Black bear chili: a unique recipe for game lovers
Discover a tasty and authentic recipe by Philippe April-Le Quéré, ideal for enhancing black bear meat. This gourmet chili combines the rich flavors of wild meat with warming spices for a comforting meal. Easy to prepare, it also works well with other game if you don't have bear on hand.
Equivalent game to replace the black bear
If you don't have access to bear meat, here are some alternatives that go perfectly with this recipe:
- Ground meat from red-fleshed game (deer, moose, elk or barnacle).
- Cubes of wild turkey or partridge breast for an experimental and light version.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. tablespoon of vegetable oil (or bear fat for purists)
- 3 lbs ground bear
- This
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- ¼ tsp. teaspoon cumin (or double for a spicier taste)
- ¼ tsp. paprika (or double for a spicier taste)
- ½ tsp. 1 tsp chili powder (or double for a spicier taste)
- ¼ tsp. tsp oregano (or double for a spicier taste)
- ½ lb white mushrooms, finely diced
- 1 cup corn kernels, drained
- 2 cups beef or game broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of pureed tomatoes
- 2 chipotle peppers, chopped (optional for spicy fans)
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 can of red beans, drained
Preparation
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Cooking the meat:
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil and cook the ground bear until cooked through.
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Adding spices and vegetables:
- Stir in salt, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, mushrooms and corn. Cook for 5 minutes, mixing well.
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Deglaze and simmer:
- Deglaze the bottom of the cauldron with the beef broth. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato puree and chipotle peppers (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.
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Adding the last ingredients:
- Add the green pepper and red beans. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes.
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Service :
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with sour cream, grated cheese, fresh cilantro and/or chips for a cozy meal.
Hunter's Tip
For an even more authentic touch, substitute bear fat for the vegetable oil, if available. This enhances the wild taste of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Bear Chili Recipe
❓✨ What are the advantages of cooking with black bear meat?
Bear meat is rich in flavor and offers a unique texture, ideal for slow-cooked dishes like chili. It is also an excellent source of protein for hunters.
❓✨ Can we adjust the spices for a milder or hotter chili?
Absolutely ! Adjust the cumin, paprika and chili powder to your preference for a more or less spicy taste.
❓✨ What meat can replace bear if I don’t have one?
You can use venison, moose or even ground beef. For a different option, try wild turkey or partridge cubes.
❓✨ Can chili be made in advance?
Yes, chili keeps well and gains flavor when reheated. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.
❓✨ What accompaniments do you recommend with this chili?
Black bear chili is delicious with rice, tortillas, homemade bread or even a green salad to balance the meal.
Conclusion: A unique culinary experience for lovers of hunting and wild cuisine
This black bear chili is a must-have recipe for those who want to showcase their game harvest. Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, it perfectly brings together hunting and cooking in an authentic experience. Try it with your favorite game and share your variations with the community!