Go Back
Chili is one of those beloved dishes that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, making it a staple in many households around the world. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or at a summer cookout, this hearty meal brings people together and satisfies the appetite. Traditionally made with a combination of meat, beans, vegetables, and spices, chili can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. In this blog post, we will delve into a unique twist on the classic chili recipe: Fig-Infused Smoky Chili. By incorporating figs, this dish gains an unexpected layer of sweetness and depth, elevating the flavor profile to new heights.

Slow Cooker Fig Chili

Discover the perfect comfort food with a twist: Fig-Infused Smoky Chili. This unique recipe blends traditional chili ingredients with sweet dried figs, enhancing flavor and nutrition. Slow cooking brings out rich, complex tastes that will satisfy your cravings. Using ground beef or turkey, a mix of beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, this hearty dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience that warms the heart and nourishes the body.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

1 cup beef or vegetable broth

1/2 cup dried figs, chopped

2 tbsp chili powder

1 tbsp ground cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust according to spice preference)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef or turkey, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, drain it off before transferring the browned meat to a slow cooker.

    Add Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté the mixture for around 5 minutes, or until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Once done, transfer this vegetable medley to the slow cooker.

      Mix the Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the drained kidney beans, black beans, canned diced tomatoes (including all the juice for added flavor), beef broth, and the chopped dried figs. Give everything a good stir to mix.

        Spice it Up: Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly until all the spices are well incorporated, ensuring each ingredient is evenly coated.

          Set and Forget: Place the lid securely on the slow cooker, setting it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Taste and Adjust: After the cooking time has finished, carefully open the slow cooker and taste the chili. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as per your liking.

              Serve: Ladle the hearty chili into individual bowls. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, and consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top to enhance the creaminess.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 8 hours | 6 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the chili with warm crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a comforting meal. Consider using colorful bowls to showcase the vibrant ingredients and add more garnishing options like sliced jalapeños for those who enjoy an extra kick!