New Hampshire

Maple Bacon Chili

A Granite State original combining pure New Hampshire maple syrup with crispy thick-cut bacon. The perfect balance of sweet and savory that warms you up on cold New England nights.

⏱ 2 hrs 🍴 Serves 8 🌶 Mild 🍁 Sweet & Smoky

Equipment Needed

🍲 Dutch Oven
🥣 Mixing Bowls
🔪 Sharp Knife
🥤 Cutting Board
🥄 Wooden Spoon

Instructions

1

Cook the bacon: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Tip: Reserve some crispy bacon pieces for garnish at the end.
2

Brown the beef: Increase heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 8 minutes. The bacon fat adds incredible flavor.

3

Saute aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

4

Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toast for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5

Add liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and maple syrup. Add the apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine.

6

Add beans and bacon: Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, and most of the cooked bacon (save some for topping).

7

Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Tip: The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully during the long simmer, creating complex sweet and savory notes.
8

Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more maple syrup for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or salt as needed. The balance should be sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy.

9

Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with reserved bacon crumbles, shredded cheddar, sour cream, and a light drizzle of maple syrup.

💡 New Hampshire Tips & Variations

  • Use real maple syrup: New Hampshire produces excellent maple syrup. Grade A Dark (formerly Grade B) has the richest flavor for cooking.
  • Quality bacon matters: Look for thick-cut, locally smoked bacon from a New Hampshire farm or butcher.
  • Balance is key: The maple adds sweetness, so taste as you go. The vinegar and spices should keep it from being too sweet.
  • Make it spicier: Add diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer more heat.
  • Slow cooker method: After browning the meat and bacon, transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Perfect for fall: This chili is ideal for New Hampshire's beautiful autumn season and leaf-peeping season.