The 16 Best Upgrades for Chili, According to Chefs

⦁ Chefs around the country have shared their favorite ways to elevate a basic chili recipe:
⦁ Smoked paprika for depth
⦁ Dark chocolate for richness
⦁ Espresso powder for complexity
⦁ Pickled jalapeños for tang and heat
⦁ Roasted sweet potatoes for sweetness and texture
⦁ Chorizo for a spicy, smoky flavor
⦁ Beer (especially stout) for depth
⦁ Cinnamon for warmth
⦁ Corn for sweetness and texture
⦁ Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for smokiness
⦁ Masa harina for thickening and corn flavor
⦁ Peanut butter for creaminess and depth
⦁ Balsamic vinegar for acidity
⦁ Cocoa powder for richness
⦁ Marmite for umami (popular among British chefs)
⦁ Roasted red peppers for sweetness and color
⦁ Remember, the key to great chili is balancing flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these chef-approved additions!