Texas Chili Con Carne

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a delicious and hearty dish that showcases tender beef chuck simmered in a rich, homemade chile purée. Perfect for gatherings or enjoying during a cozy night in, this chili packs bold flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Pair it with tortilla chips, cornbread, or your favorite toppings for a memorable meal.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Chilies and Broth:
• Beef and Vegetables:
• Spices and Flavorings:
• Optional Toppings:
• How to Make Texas Chili Con Carne
• Step 1: Toast and Blend Chilies
• Step 2: Sear the Beef
• Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices
• Step 4: Simmer the Chili
• Step 5: Finish and Serve
• How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne
• Toppings
• Side Dishes
• How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne
• Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne
• Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne without beans?
• What type of beef is best for Texas Chili Con Carne?
• How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?
• How can I customize my Texas Chili Con Carne?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of various chilies and spices creates an unforgettable taste that defines Texas chili.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs for added flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields 11–12 cups, making it ideal for batch cooking and freezing.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness by adding or omitting jalapeños or chipotle chilies to suit your preference.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can make this hearty dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making Texas Chili Con Carne, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the chili and allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Blender: Used to create a smooth chile purée that adds depth to the dish.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

Chilies and Broth:

• 4 New Mexico chilies, stems and seeds removed (5–6 inches each)
• 3 Ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed (4 inches each)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed

Beef and Vegetables:

• 4 lbs boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 extra-large yellow onion, chopped (about 2.5 cups)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• 2–6 jalapeños, seeds and ribs removed for less heat if desired, diced (optional)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 1.5 tablespoons)

Spices and Flavorings:

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• 2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
• 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups tomato purée, plus more as needed

Optional Toppings:

• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream
• Mexican hot sauce
• Diced onions (green, purple, or yellow)

How to Make Texas Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Toast and Blend Chilies

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chilies and toast for about 2 minutes per side until slightly darkened and aromatic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 5–10 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to a blender. Remove the center insert of the lid, cover with a kitchen towel, and blend on low speed then increase to high until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the pot over medium-high heat.
2. Pat beef dry with paper towels; season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Working in batches, sear beef for about 3 minutes per side without overcrowding the pot. Transfer seared beef to a bowl; repeat with remaining beef adding more oil if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

1. Return the empty pot to medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños (if using); sauté for about 4 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and allspice; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

1. Pour in the tomato purée, blended chile mixture, Mexican oregano, and cocoa powder; stir to combine.
2. Return the seared beef along with any accumulated juices to the pot.
3. Bring chili to a simmer; reduce heat to low. Cook for 2–3 hours while stirring occasionally until beef is tender. Adjust consistency with additional broth or tomato purée as preferred.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Season chili with salt and pepper to taste near the end of cooking.
2. Serve hot with your choice of toppings like tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or sour cream.

Enjoy your flavorful Texas Chili Con Carne, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Texas Chili Con Carne is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions can elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy texture and sharp flavor that balances the spices in the chili.
• Chopped Cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbal note that brightens up each spoonful of chili.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty kick that complements the rich, meaty flavors.
• Sour Cream: Provides a cool, creamy contrast to the heat of the chili, making it more enjoyable.
• Diced Onions: Choose from green, purple, or yellow onions for an added crunch and bite.

Side Dishes

• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying as a crunchy side.
• Cornbread: Soft and sweet cornbread pairs excellently with the spicy flavors of Texas Chili.
• Rice: A simple bowl of rice can help soak up the chili and make it more filling.

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How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

Making Texas Chili Con Carne is an art that can be perfected with a few tips. Here are some ways to enhance your cooking process.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tender pieces that break down beautifully during cooking.
• Toast Your Spices: Toasting spices before adding them releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavors.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust the number of jalapeños or substitute with chipotle chilies based on your preferred spice level.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the chili to simmer for several hours will deepen its flavors and tenderness.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures balanced flavors in your final dish.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with Texas Chili Con Carne can enhance its hearty flavors and create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread complements the spice of chili perfectly. Serve it warm with butter for extra flavor.
2. Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are great for dipping into your chili. They add texture and crunch to each bite.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crisp bite that contrasts nicely with the rich, meaty chili.
4. Rice: White or brown rice works well to soak up the chili’s sauce, making for a more filling meal.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and healthiness to your plate.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances out spiciness while being hearty enough to complement the main dish.
7. Pickles or Jalapeños: Providing tangy crunch, pickles or jalapeños can enhance each spoonful of your Texas Chili.

These pairings not only complement but also elevate your dining experience when enjoying Texas Chili Con Carne!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Texas Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Forgetting to toast the chilies can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always toast until aromatic for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Pot: If you add too much beef at once, it won’t sear properly. Cook in batches to achieve a nice brown crust on each piece.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning your chili will result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning, especially towards the end of cooking.
• Using High-Sodium Broth: Using regular broth can make your chili overly salty. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth for better control over salt levels.
• Not Letting It Simmer Long Enough: Rushing the simmering process can result in tough beef. Allow for 2-3 hours of cooking for tender meat and rich flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Texas Chili Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne

• Place cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer individual portions to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, adding broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Texas Chili Con Carne.

Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne without beans?

Yes, this recipe is traditionally beanless, focusing on the meaty flavor. You can add beans if you prefer a different texture.

What type of beef is best for Texas Chili Con Carne?

Boneless beef chuck works best due to its tenderness after slow cooking. Brisket can also be used for added flavor.

How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños or other chilies you use. Adjust according to your taste preferences.

How can I customize my Texas Chili Con Carne?

You can customize it by adding different toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado. Additionally, consider using smoked chilies for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Texas Chili Con Carne is not just flavorful; it’s adaptable and comforting. This recipe allows you to experiment with spices and toppings, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your taste!