Texas Chili Con Carne

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a robust and satisfying dish that brings the bold flavors of the Lone Star State right to your table. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy dinners at home, this chili features tender beef simmered in a rich homemade chile purée. It’s versatile enough to serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or any of your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: This dish is packed with spices and chilies that offer a deep, savory flavor profile.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can make this delicious chili even if you’re new to cooking.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes about 11–12 cups—ideal for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level easily by adding or omitting jalapeños.
• Perfect for Entertaining: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with various sides and toppings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the chili evenly.
• Blender: Needed to blend the chilies into a smooth purée, enhancing the chili’s texture.
• Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife allows for quick and safe chopping of ingredients.

Ingredients

This hearty, meaty Texas-style chili features tender chunks of beef chuck simmered in a rich, homemade chile purée. Packed with bold flavors, this dish is perfect for serving with tortilla chips, cornbread, or your favorite toppings. It makes about 11–12 cups, making it great for gatherings or meal prep!

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)

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How to Make Texas Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Toast and Blend Chilies

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

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Pat beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Sear beef in batches for about 3 minutes per side; avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Transfer seared beef to a bowl and repeat until all beef is browned.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

Return the empty pot to medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños if using; sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic along with cumin, paprika, coriander, and allspice; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Pour in tomato purée along with blended chile mixture, Mexican oregano, and cocoa powder; stir well to combine. Return seared beef along with any accumulated juices back into the pot. Bring chili to a simmer then reduce heat to low. Cook for about 2–3 hours while stirring occasionally until beef is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season your chili with salt and pepper near the end of cooking according to taste preferences. Serve hot topped with tortilla chips or shredded cheese as desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy an incredible bowl of Texas Chili Con Carne, full of flavor!

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Serving Texas Chili Con Carne is all about enhancing its rich, hearty flavors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, the right toppings and sides can elevate this dish even further.

Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips add a delightful contrast to the rich chili. Serve them on the side for dipping or crumbling on top.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

• A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the warm chili, adding creaminess and depth.

Chopped Cilantro

• Fresh cilantro provides a burst of flavor and brightness that balances the richness of the chili.

Lime Wedges

• Squeezing fresh lime juice over your bowl adds a zesty kick that enhances the overall taste.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream offers creaminess and helps mellow out the spice level for those who prefer a milder flavor.

Mexican Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy extra heat, a few dashes of Mexican hot sauce can take your chili to the next level.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

To create an unforgettable Texas Chili Con Carne, consider these essential tips that will help you achieve the right balance of flavors and textures.

• Choose quality beef: Selecting well-marbled beef chuck ensures tender results after long cooking.
• Toast your spices: Toasting spices in oil before adding them enhances their flavor, giving your chili more depth.
• Adjust heat levels: Taste as you go and adjust jalapeño or chipotle quantities based on your desired spice level.
• Let it rest: Allowing your chili to sit for at least 30 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Use homemade broth: If possible, utilize homemade or low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Pairing sides with Texas Chili Con Carne can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread complements the spice of the chili perfectly. Serve warm with butter.
2. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice acts as a great base for chili, absorbing all those delicious juices.
3. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a nice contrast to the spicy chili, adding a unique twist to your meal.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can cut through the heat and adds crunch; consider using a vinegar-based dressing for brightness.
5. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with mayo, cheese, and spices offers bold flavors that pair well with chili.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add color and freshness to your plate while complementing the rich flavors of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Texas Chili Con Carne can be fun, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring the quality of meat: Using low-quality beef can lead to tough chili. Always choose fresh, high-quality beef chuck for tender results.
• Skimping on spices: Not using enough spices can make your chili bland. Don’t hesitate to measure generously and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Overcooking or undercooking the beef: Cooking for too long can dry out the meat, while not cooking it enough can leave it chewy. Aim for a simmer of 2-3 hours for perfect tenderness.
• Omitting the chilies: Skipping on the chilies means missing out on key flavors. Be sure to include the New Mexico and Ancho chilies for authentic taste.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can result in a less developed flavor. Allow your chili to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, heating until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas Chili Con Carne?

Texas Chili Con Carne is a hearty chili made with chunks of beef, a rich chile purée, and bold spices. It’s traditionally beanless, focusing on meat and flavor.

Can I use beans in my Texas Chili Con Carne?

While traditional recipes do not include beans, you can add them if desired. Just remember that it won’t be considered authentic Texas chili!

How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?

The spice level varies based on the number of jalapeños used. For milder chili, reduce or omit jalapeños altogether.

What are some good toppings for Texas Chili Con Carne?

Delicious toppings include shredded cheese, tortilla chips, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, and diced onions.

Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne in advance?

Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead enhances its flavor as it sits and develops overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Texas Chili Con Carne is not only hearty and flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adjusting the spice level or adding toppings based on your preferences. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is bound to impress everyone at the table!