High-Protein Beef Chili with Espresso & Dark Chocolate

A hearty, protein-packed beef chili made with lean ground beef, beans, tomatoes and warming spices. The secret? A shot of espresso and a little dark chocolate at the end. It sounds unexpected, but it adds a deeper, richer flavor without making the chili taste like coffee or chocolate.
Estimated Nutrition (per 350 g serving) - 455 kcal | 52 g protein | 31 g carbs | 11 g fat | 8 g fiber

Ingredients

• 700 g extra-lean ground beef

• 300 g fresh tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 300 g cooked red or kidney beans, drained

• 300 ml beef broth

• 120 g onion, finely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• ½ tsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tbsp fresh chili, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 shot espresso

• 15–20 g dark chocolate

Directions

Heat ½ teaspoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it begins to soften.

Add the ground beef, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and fresh chili if using. Break up the beef and mix everything together. Cook for approximately 10–15 minutes, until the beef has browned and is cooked through.

Add the tomato sauce, beans and beef broth. Stir well, reduce the heat, and let the chili gently simmer for about 30 minutes.

Now for my favorite two special ingredients: add one shot of espresso or strong coffee and 15–20 g of dark chocolate. Yes, you heard that right. Stir until the chocolate has completely melted into the chili, then cook for another 5 minutes.

Serve warm, topped with freshly chopped mixed herbs, if desired and enjoy…

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.