Introduction
Get ready to warm your soul with this hearty and delicious slow-cooked chili featuring tender sirloin steak or stew beef. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights and provides a satisfying meal packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. With an easy preparation process and a delightful blend of spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½-2 pounds sirloin steak or stew beef, cut into bite-size pieces
1 small onion, diced
½ teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
2½ tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
14.5-ounce can crushed tomatoes
14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
14.5-ounce can chili beans (do not drain)
14.5-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
14.5-ounce can beef broth or beef consommé
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6 to 8 people
This recipe not only fills your tummy but also delights your taste buds with its rich and savory flavors. Enjoy a bowl of this warm chili topped with your favorite garnishes, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, for an extra special touch.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the sirloin steak or stew beef into bite-size cubes. Dice the small onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed meat and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. Continue cooking until the onion becomes tender.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Carefully transfer the browned meat, diced onions, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the chili powder, cumin, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chili beans (with liquid), black beans (drained and rinsed), beef broth, tomato paste, and packed brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Stir all the ingredients together in the slow cooker to ensure they are well combined.
Step 7: Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked through.
Notes
Note 1: Meat Selection
You can use either sirloin steak for a leaner option or stew beef for a richer flavor.
Note 2: Bean Variations
Feel free to substitute or add other types of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, according to your preference.
Note 3: Cooking Time
Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker model; check for doneness if uncertain.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish goes well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Meat Preparation
Cut the sirloin steak or stew beef into bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking and tenderness in the final dish.
Sautéing
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the cubed meat until browned, enhancing the flavor through caramelization.
Onion and Garlic Cooking
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet after browning the meat. Cook until the onion is tender, allowing the flavors to meld.
Slow Cooking
Transfer the cooked ingredients to a slow cooker. Combine all remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours to develop deep flavors and tender meat.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck or round, but ensure it’s cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook this dish on the stovetop or in the oven on low heat. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, corn, or even zucchinis for added texture and flavor.
How do I adjust the spice level?
To increase spiciness, add more chili powder or include fresh jalapeños. To decrease it, reduce the amount of chili powder.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen for later use.
Conclusion
This hearty and flavorful beef chili recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. The combination of spices, beans, and tender meat results in a dish that is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Chili
Replace the beef with a mix of diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious meat-free version.
Beef and Quinoa Chili
Add cooked quinoa to the chili for extra protein and a hearty texture. Adjust liquid quantities accordingly to maintain the desired consistency.
Spicy Chipotle Beef Chili
Incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick to the chili.
Chili Verde
Substitute beef with pork and use tomatillos instead of tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Slow Cooker Beef Tacos
Use the same beef mixture, but serve it in taco shells topped with your favorite taco toppings like avocado, salsa, and cheese.
Chili Mac
Add cooked pasta to the chili for a comforting chili mac dish.
Beef Chili with Cornbread Topping
Top the chili with cornbread batter and bake until golden for a delicious casserole-style meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the beef chili mixture to stuff bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender for a nutritious and visually appealing dish.
