There is just something about chili that makes everyone feel comfortable. When you have a group of close friends together on a crisp Saturday afternoon in the Fall and you are enjoying the best of what college football has to offer, almost nothing goes better than a bowl of chili.

This chili is made even better with hints of coco and cinnamon, it’s that little something special in the bowl that makes all your friends question what is in this chili as they go back for thirds. We tend to like our chili on the mild side, and that’s where this recipe goes, but adding cayenne pepper or perhaps chipotles in adobo could easily fire it up!

Paleo Chili

2 Tbs Bacon Grease

1 Pepper - diced (either 1 bell pepper or an equal amount of your favorite heat)

2 Onions – diced

4 Cloves of Garlic – minced

1 tsp Oregano

2 Tbs Chili Powder

2 Tbs Cumin

1 tsp Kosher Salt

1 ½ tsp Coco Powder

Dash of Cinnamon

1 lb Ground Beef

1 lb Ground Pork

1 28oz can Whole Peeled Tomatoes

1 28oz can Crushed Tomatoes

3-4 Tbs Tomato Paste

Begin by putting a large Dutch oven over medium low heat. Add the Bacon Grease (if you don’t keep this on hand, start! Olive or Coconut oil will work just fine) to the Dutch oven and allow to heat up. Once hot add the Onion and Pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally for 4-5 minutes. As the onions and peppers begin to look translucent add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Next add the meat and continue to cook over medium heat until the meat is fully cooked (no pink remaining).

In a small bowl combine the Oregano, Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt, Coco Powder, and Cinnamon. Once the meat is fully cooked add the spice mix along with the Tomato Paste to the Dutch oven and mix into the meat.

When the spice mix is thoroughly incorporated add both cans of Tomatoes and stir well. Gently raise the heat and allow the chili to come to a simmer then reduce the heat to low. Slowly simmer the chili for 1 ½ - 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Taste the chili for seasoning.

Garnish with diced onion or avocado slices or for the adventurous roast up a spaghetti squash and have your chili Cincinnati style. Enjoy!