Introduction
Discover a hearty and flavorful chili recipe that brings the warmth of spices and the richness of beef to your table. This dish features tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmered in a robust broth enriched with various chili powders, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for cold nights or a gathering with friends, this chili is a comforting meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
3-4 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 jalapeño peppers, diced
8 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons ground pasilla chili powder
2 tablespoons dried ancho chili powder
1-2 teaspoons dried New Mexico chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2-2½ cups water
1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons corn flour (masa harina)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for serving)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
This chili recipe will not only fill your belly but also warm your heart with its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef dry and season it with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary, and brown on two sides, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Cook Jalapeños and Garlic
Remove the beef from the pot, leaving any oil behind. Reduce the heat to medium and add the diced jalapeño peppers and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Stir in the pasilla chili powder, ancho chili powder, and New Mexico chili powder. Cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add the beef broth, 2 cups of water, crushed tomatoes, corn flour, brown sugar, dried oregano, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, and the remaining salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Simmer the Chili
Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover with the lid slightly askew to allow some steam to escape, and cook for about 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
Step 7: Adjust Consistency
If the chili becomes too thick during cooking, add the remaining ½ cup of water as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Step 8: Final Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
Cooking in Batches
If your pot is not large enough to accommodate all the beef at once, brown it in batches to ensure even cooking.
Spice Adjustments
The amount of New Mexico chili powder can be adjusted according to your preferred level of heat.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving this dish with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Beef
Season the beef pieces with kosher salt and ground black pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
Browning the Beef
Brown the beef in a hot pan with vegetable oil to create a rich, caramelized crust. This step contributes to the overall depth of flavor in the dish.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté diced jalapeño peppers and minced garlic in the leftover oil to release their flavors and add a fragrant foundation to the dish.
Integrating Spices
Stir in the various chili powders and cook them until fragrant. This process helps release their essential oils, amplifying the overall flavor profile.
Building the Chili Base
Add beef broth, water, crushed tomatoes, and other ingredients to create a hearty mixture. This forms the base of the chili, infusing all elements with flavor as it simmers.
Simmering for Tenderness
Simmer the beef slowly to allow it to become tender. This method ensures that the meat absorbs the flavors from the spices and broth.
Adjusting Consistency
If the chili thickens too much during cooking, add water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved. This allows control over the final texture of the dish.
Tasting and Adjusting Seasoning
Always taste the chili before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. This step is essential for achieving a balanced flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of beef instead of chuck roast?
Yes, other cuts such as brisket or round can be used, but chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor when slow-cooked.
How spicy will the chili be with the jalapeños?
The spice level will depend on the quantity and type of jalapeños used. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños and other chili powders to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics can be done in a pan first. Then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I substitute for masa harina?
If you don’t have masa harina, you can use all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener, though the flavor profile may change slightly.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage, up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This hearty beef chili combines rich flavors and vibrant spices to create a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. The tender beef, complemented by the smoky chili powders and fresh vegetables, makes for a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides. Elevate your chili experience with simple garnishes like cilantro for an added fresh touch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chili Tacos
Use the prepared chili as a filling for soft or hard taco shells, topped with cheese, avocado, and your favorite salsa.
Chili Mac
Combine the beef chili with cooked macaroni and cheese for a delicious twist on comfort food.
Chili Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill halved bell peppers with the chili mixture, top them with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Chili Nachos
Layer tortilla chips with the beef chili, melty cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a perfect snack or appetizer.
Chili Burritos
Wrap the chili in tortilla wraps with rice and beans for a hearty burrito option.
Chili over Rice
Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a simple and filling meal.
Chili with Cornbread
Pair the beef chili with homemade or store-bought cornbread for a classic combination.
Chili Soup
Thin the chili with additional broth or water to serve as a hearty soup, garnished with tortilla strips.
Chili and Grilled Cheese
Serve a bowl of chili alongside a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic dinner.
