West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili Recipe

Name: West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 210 min
Total time: 240 min
Ingredients: 1 (8 ounce) package dry black beans; 1 (8 ounce) package dry kidney beans; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; salt and pepper to taste; 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large sweet onion, chopped; 2 green bell peppers, chopped; 2 zucchini, diced; 3 (10 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chile peppers; 1 (10 ounce) can tomato sauce; 0.5 (16 ounce) jar hot chunky salsa; 2 tablespoons chili sauce; 2 pounds ground buffalo

Cook Time: 210 minutes

This hearty and flavorful chili combines black beans, kidney beans, and ground buffalo meat with a mix of vegetables and spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this recipe yields 8 servings.

Ingredients

1 (8 ounce) package dry black beans
1 (8 ounce) package dry kidney beans
1 tablespoon chili powder
teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large sweet onion, chopped
2 green bell peppers, chopped
2 zucchini, diced
3 (10 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
1 (10 ounce) can tomato sauce
(16 ounce) jar hot chunky salsa
2 tablespoons chili sauce
2 pounds ground buffalo

Directions

Step 1: Soak the black beans and kidney beans in water overnight. After soaking, drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Step 2: In a large pot, combine the soaked beans with enough water to cover them. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and have absorbed most of the water.

Step 3: Once the beans are softened, season them with chili powder, red pepper flakes, jalapeno, salt, and pepper. Set the jalapeno seeds aside to use later.

Step 4: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell peppers, and saut for 3 minutes until softened.

Step 5: Stir in the diced zucchini, canned diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, tomato sauce, and hot salsa. Season with the reserved jalapeno seeds and chili sauce, stirring well. Keep the mixture on medium-low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: In another large skillet, place the ground buffalo meat and cook over medium-high heat until it is evenly browned. Drain off any excess fat.

Step 7: Add the cooked ground buffalo and vegetable mixture to the simmering beans. Stir everything together and continue to simmer the chili for an additional hour, allowing the flavors to fully develop.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	536
Total Fat	23g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	79mg
Sodium	923mg
Total Carbohydrate	49g
Dietary Fiber	12g
Total Sugars	7g
Protein	37g
Vitamin C	40mg
Calcium	122mg
Iron	8mg
Potassium	1696mg

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

West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that stands out from traditional chili recipes by using buffalo meat instead of the usual beef. Its unique blend of spices, beans, and vegetables creates a rich and satisfying meal that has become a beloved staple in Texan kitchens.

History of West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili

The origin of chili in Texas can be traced back to the early 19th century, with the dish evolving from the combination of indigenous ingredients and Spanish culinary traditions. Buffalo meat, a leaner and more flavorful alternative to beef, was historically abundant in the region and became a prominent feature in many local dishes, including chili. The use of buffalo in chili is part of a broader trend of incorporating native game meats into traditional recipes, offering a healthier yet equally rich alternative to conventional meats.

Regional Characteristics

West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili reflects the rugged landscape and diverse culinary influences of the region. The chili typically includes a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, along with a combination of dry beans like black and kidney beans. The inclusion of hot salsa and jalapenos brings a spicy kick to the dish, while the use of buffalo meat imparts a distinct, savory flavor that sets it apart from other chili variations. West Texas chili is often prepared with a thick, hearty texture, perfect for the area's chilly evenings and outdoor gatherings.

What Sets It Apart from Other Chili Recipes?

While many chili recipes feature ground beef or pork, West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili stands out because of its use of buffalo meat. Buffalo is leaner and has a slightly richer flavor than beef, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Additionally, West Texas chili recipes often include a variety of beans, which some traditional chili purists might avoid. Unlike Texas chili, which is often made without beans, West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili embraces them for added texture and flavor.

Where Is It Typically Served?

West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili is commonly served in family homes, outdoor gatherings, and local chili cook-offs. Its hearty and filling nature makes it a perfect dish for colder months, often enjoyed with a side of cornbread or tortilla chips. It's also a popular choice for tailgating and BBQs, where the spicy, robust flavors are sure to please a crowd. In West Texas, this chili can be found in many local diners and restaurants, showcasing the region's love for bold, flavorful dishes.

Interesting Facts

Buffalo meat is leaner than beef and contains fewer calories and less fat, making it a healthier alternative for chili.
Despite its hearty nature, West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili can be customized with additional ingredients like venison or other game meats for an even more unique flavor.
Chili cook-offs are a major part of Texas culture, and many chili enthusiasts take pride in their secret recipes, some of which date back generations.
Texas is known for its "chili purists," who argue that chili should never include beans, a viewpoint that makes the inclusion of beans in West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili a point of debate among local chili aficionados.

Conclusion

West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili is more than just a mealit's a symbol of the region's rich history and diverse culinary influences. Whether served at a family dinner, a chili cook-off, or a BBQ gathering, this dish brings the bold flavors of West Texas into every bite. With its distinctive use of buffalo meat, fresh vegetables, and beans, it's a chili recipe that stands apart, offering a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic Texan favorite.

FAQ about West Texas-Style Buffalo Chili Recipe

Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to let the chili cool down to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, venison, or even pork for the buffalo meat. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the meat you use.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili in a slow cooker. Brown the ground buffalo and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then add everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Adjust seasonings as necessary.

This chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, or a dollop of sour cream. You can also serve it with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Yes, you can omit the zucchini if you prefer or substitute it with other vegetables like carrots, squash, or even sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

Yes, you can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the spicy ingredients. Conversely, if you like it spicier, consider adding hot sauce or extra chili peppers.

To make this chili vegetarian, simply replace the buffalo meat with plant-based protein such as textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, or extra beans. You can also add more vegetables for a heartier dish.

Yes, this chili is freezer-friendly! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

If your chili turns out too thick, you can add a bit of water, broth, or even tomato juice to thin it out. Stir well and simmer for a few minutes to combine.

Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them before adding them to the chili. Reduce the cooking time for the beans, as they are already cooked.

Comments

Ruth Wright

05/03/2025 03:54:45 PM

We prepared a double batch of chili, spiced it up with two habanero peppers, and added some venison to the mix. We shared it with our community at a Southern California church event and it was a hit! To their surprise, we revealed afterwards that it contained both buffalo and deer meat. They were amazed at how delicious game meat could be. Our chili was such a hit that we didn't have any leftovers to take home. We're planning to make it again for our Monday Night Football gathering. :)

Kenneth Clark

11/23/2022 05:46:45 PM

The chili is delicious, but traditional Texas-style chili doesn't include any beans.

Samuel Gomez

12/23/2022 12:41:23 PM

The dish was quite enjoyable, but we lean towards the Colorado buffalo chili recipe on this website, with our own tweaks. The only change I made was using canned beans. The zucchini was a nice touch that we appreciated. It felt like the meat could benefit from more seasoning during the cooking process. It did require using multiple pots, but the end result was flavorful. I wonder if it would turn out just as delicious when prepared in a slow cooker.

Carolyn Lee

05/05/2023 12:56:47 AM

The buffalo meat is delicious and flavorful. However, I feel that this recipe could benefit from a bit more spice.

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