Slow Cooker Bison Chili Recipe

Cook Time: 360 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound ground bison
• 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can chili-ready diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili seasoning
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 (8 ounce) package elbow macaroni

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground bison and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Transfer the cooked bison to a slow cooker. Add chili beans, diced tomatoes (both chili-ready and fire-roasted), chopped onion, bell pepper, ground cumin, chili seasoning, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Set the slow cooker to cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to thicken.
4. While the chili is cooking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender but firm to the bite (about 8 minutes).
5. Drain the macaroni and add it to the slow cooker during the final 20 minutes of cooking time. Stir gently to incorporate the pasta into the chili.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, taste the chili and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 serving = 1/6 of the recipe):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	381	-
Total Fat	8g	11%
Saturated Fat	3g	14%
Cholesterol	54mg	18%
Sodium	1016mg	44%
Total Carbohydrate	51g	18%
Dietary Fiber	7g	26%
Total Sugars	5g	-
Protein	30g	60%
Vitamin C	29mg	33%
Calcium	77mg	6%
Iron	3mg	19%
Potassium	606mg	13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is based on available data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Recipe by Becca Miller

Description: Ground bison is a flavorful substitute for beef in this hearty, slow-cooker chili recipe that takes just 15 minutes of prep time.

History and Origins of Bison Chili

Bison chili has deep roots in North American cuisine, particularly within Indigenous communities and the Great Plains region. Bison, once an abundant resource in North America, was a staple in the diet of many Native American tribes. They utilized every part of the bison, including its meat, for various dishes, one of which was chili. Over time, the dish evolved with the addition of European spices and ingredients, becoming a popular comfort food across the United States, especially in the American Midwest and the western states.

Regional Characteristics

Bison chili is particularly popular in the western United States, where bison is more commonly found. In states like Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado, where bison populations thrive, this dish has gained prominence as a lean alternative to beef chili. The use of slow cookers in modern recipes, like the one featured here, allows for a rich, slow-simmered flavor that draws out the best qualities of bison meat. In some areas, the chili is paired with locally grown peppers, beans, and tomatoes, giving it a distinct regional twist.

How Bison Chili Differs from Other Chili Recipes

Bison chili differs from traditional beef chili primarily in the type of meat used. Bison is leaner than beef, offering a richer, more gamey flavor without the extra fat content. This makes bison chili a healthier option for those seeking a lower-fat alternative. Additionally, bisons slightly sweeter and earthier taste adds depth to the chili, making it stand out from the more common beef chili. While the seasonings and ingredients in the chililike cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepperremain similar to traditional chili, the meat itself creates a unique flavor profile.

Where is Bison Chili Typically Served?

Bison chili is a popular dish in many American restaurants, especially those that focus on game meats or regional American cuisine. Its often served in casual dining settings, such as family-owned diners or bison-themed restaurants. It's also a favorite at outdoor events like tailgates, barbecues, and chili cook-offs, where its hearty nature and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Additionally, its a fantastic dish for cozy winter nights at home, making it a staple in comfort food menus.

Interesting Facts About Bison and Chili

• Bison meat is often considered more sustainable than beef, as bison are generally raised in more natural and free-range conditions.
• Chili recipes, in general, vary greatly from region to region. Some versions include exotic ingredients such as chocolate, coffee, or even beer to add complexity to the flavor.
• Bison was historically an important source of food for Native American tribes, and many traditional dishes, like bison stew, have been passed down through generations.
• In some cultures, bison chili is made with wild-caught bison, while others opt for farmed bison, which tends to have a milder flavor.

Slow Cooker Bison Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground bison
• 1 (15 ounce) can chili beans
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can chili-ready diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili seasoning
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 (8 ounce) package elbow macaroni

Directions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir ground bison in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Place cooked bison in a slow cooker. Add chili beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, cumin, chili seasoning, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; mix to combine. Cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes.
4. Drain the macaroni and add it to the chili in the slow cooker for the last 20 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: 381 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 51g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 7g

FAQ about Slow Cooker Bison Chili Recipe

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