Texas Chili Con Carne

Published:

by Clare

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a flavorful dish that showcases the bold tastes of Tex-Mex cuisine. With tender beef chuck simmered in a rich chile purée, this chili is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. It’s versatile enough to be served with tortilla chips, cornbread, or your favorite toppings. This chili recipe stands out due to its robust flavors and hearty texture, making it a beloved choice among chili enthusiasts.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of chilies and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting.
  • Easy to Customize: Adjust the heat and ingredients according to your preference; you can make it milder or add more spice.
  • Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes about 11–12 cups, perfect for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a chilly evening at home, this chili fits right in.
  • Satisfying and Hearty: The tender chunks of beef combined with a thick sauce make for a filling meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Texas Chili Con Carne, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help you prepare the dish efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: Essential for cooking the chili evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld beautifully.
  • Blender: Perfect for creating the smooth chile purée that adds richness to the dish.

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)
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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 for about 2 minutes per side until slightly darkened and aromatic. Pour in chicken broth and bring 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 before increasing to high until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

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

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

Return the empty pot to medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños (if using). Sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, 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 then return seared beef along with any accumulated juices back to the pot. Bring chili to a simmer then reduce heat to low; cook for 2–3 hours stirring occasionally until beef is tender. You can add more broth if it gets too thick or more tomato purée if you prefer it thicker.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season chili with salt and pepper near the end of cooking according to taste preferences. Serve hot topped with tortilla chips, shredded cheese, sour cream, or any of your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Serving Texas Chili Con Carne can elevate your mealtime experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, the right toppings and sides can enhance the rich flavors of this hearty dish.

Classic Toppings

  • Tortilla Chips – Crunchy and perfect for dipping, these add a delightful texture to your chili.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – A classic addition that melts beautifully over hot chili for a creamy finish.
  • Chopped Cilantro – This fresh herb brings brightness and balances the bold flavors of the chili.
  • Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime adds a zesty kick that enhances the overall taste.
  • Sour Cream – Cool and creamy, sour cream provides a nice contrast to the spicy chili.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Cornbread – Sweet and fluffy cornbread complements the savory flavors of the chili wonderfully.
  • Rice – Serving it over rice can help soak up the delicious sauce while adding heartiness to the meal.
  • Pickled Onions – The tangy flavor of pickled onions adds an exciting twist that cuts through the richness.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Texas Chili Con Carne involves using quality ingredients and techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

  • Choose Quality Meat – Opt for well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and rich flavor after slow cooking.
  • Toast Your Spices – Toasting spices like cumin and coriander before adding them enhances their natural flavors.
  • Balance Heat Levels – Adjust jalapeño or chipotle quantities based on your heat preference to make it just right for everyone.
  • Let It Simmer – Allow your chili to simmer low and slow; this deepens flavors and tenderizes meat beautifully.
  • Taste as You Go – Season gradually throughout cooking; this helps achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
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Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Complementing your Texas Chili Con Carne with sides can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

  1. Cornbread – This sweet bread is a traditional side that pairs well with chili’s spiciness. Serve warm for best results.
  2. Coleslaw – A refreshing, crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the rich flavors of the chili.
  3. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes provide a hearty alternative base for serving chili on top.
  4. Mexican Rice – Flavored with spices, Mexican rice is excellent at soaking up all those delicious chili juices.
  5. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables grilled until charred make a great accompaniment, adding flavor and nutrition.
  6. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas filled with peppers or onions offer extra comfort and are fun to dip in chili!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you make the best Texas Chili Con Carne. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Using the wrong cut of meat: Choosing a lean cut can result in a dry chili. Opt for beef chuck, which becomes tender with slow cooking.
  • Skipping the searing step: Not searing the beef can lead to less flavor. Always brown your meat to enhance the dish’s depth.
  • Overcooking or undercooking chilies: Improperly cooked chilies can affect texture and taste. Toast them briefly before blending for best results.
  • Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end may leave your chili bland. Always season to your preference just before serving.
  • Not allowing enough simmering time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Letting it simmer for 2-3 hours is key for tender beef and rich flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne

  • Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
  • Can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Texas Chili Con Carne

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas Chili Con Carne different from other chilis?

Texas Chili Con Carne is known for its lack of beans and its emphasis on meat and spices, providing a hearty and robust flavor profile.

Can I add beans to Texas Chili Con Carne?

While traditional recipes do not include beans, you can add them if desired. Just remember this strays from authentic Texas-style chili.

How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on the type and amount of chilies used. You can control heat by adjusting jalapeños or opting for milder alternatives.

What toppings are best for Texas Chili Con Carne?

Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. Tortilla chips also add a nice crunch.

Is it possible to make Texas Chili Con Carne vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Texas Chili Con Carne is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding your favorite toppings. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it!


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Texas Chili Con Carne

Texas Chili Con Carne


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  • Author: Clare
  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Texas Chili Con Carne is a quintessential dish that embodies the heart of Tex-Mex cuisine. This robust chili features tender beef chuck simmered in a rich blend of spices and chile purée, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy night in, this chili is both comforting and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a beloved choice among chili enthusiasts. Dive into the flavors of Texas with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to impress family and friends alike!


Ingredients

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  • 4 New Mexico chilies
  • 3 Ancho chilies
  • 4 lbs boneless beef chuck
  • 1 extra-large yellow onion
  • 2 cups tomato purée
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • Spices: cumin, paprika, coriander, allspice, Mexican oregano, cocoa powder

Instructions

  1. Toast and blend the chilies: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Toast chilies for about 2 minutes per side until fragrant. Add chicken broth and boil, then steep off heat for 5-10 minutes. Blend until smooth.
  2. Sear the beef: In the same pot, heat olive oil and sear seasoned beef cubes until browned on each side. Set aside.
  3. Sauté vegetables: In the pot, cook onion, bell pepper, and jalapeños until softened. Stir in garlic and spices.
  4. Simmer the chili: Combine blended chilies, tomato purée, and beef in the pot. Simmer on low for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.
  5. Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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