Texas Chili Con Carne

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a true culinary delight, perfect for any occasion. The robust flavors of tender beef chuck simmering in a rich chili purée create a dish that warms the soul. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this chili stands out with its hearty ingredients and customizable toppings.

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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
• Accompaniments
• 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
• What makes Texas Chili Con Carne different?
• Can I use different types of meat?
• How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?
• Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne ahead of time?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Flavorful: Each bite of the Texas Chili Con Carne is packed with rich spices and deep flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, making this chili is hassle-free. Perfect for cooks of all levels!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with tortilla chips, or paired with cornbread. You can also customize it with various toppings.
• Great for Meal Prep: This recipe yields about 11–12 cups, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
• Adaptable Heat Levels: Control the spiciness by adjusting the number of jalapeños or opting for chipotle chilies instead.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering all the ingredients evenly. It allows for proper cooking without overcrowding.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth chile purée that blends all the flavors together seamlessly.

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 them for about 2 minutes per side until they are 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 increasing to high until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In the same pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil 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 tender.
– Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and allspice. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili

Pour in the tomato purée along with the blended chile mixture, Mexican oregano, and cocoa powder.
– Stir everything together well. Return the seared beef along with any accumulated juices back into the pot.
– Bring the chili to a simmer then reduce heat to low.
– Cook for about 2–3 hours while stirring occasionally until beef is tender. Adjust thickness by adding more broth or tomato purée as needed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season your chili with salt and pepper to taste close to the end of cooking time.
– Serve hot alongside your favorite toppings such as tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or sour cream.

With these steps completed, you’ll have an incredible Texas Chili Con Carne ready to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Serving Texas Chili Con Carne is an opportunity to create a flavorful experience. This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and toppings, enhancing its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

Toppings

• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy and perfect for dipping, these add a delightful contrast.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top makes each bowl creamy and savory.
• Chopped Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbal flavor that brightens the chili.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice brings acidity, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Sour Cream – Creamy and tangy, sour cream offers a cooling effect to the spicy chili.
• Diced Onions – Raw onions add crunch and sharpness, amplifying the overall flavor profile.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread serves as a perfect bread option to soak up every delicious bite.
• Rice – Fluffy rice can help tone down the heat while providing a filling base under your chili.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Texas Chili Con Carne involves attention to detail and some key techniques. Follow these tips to elevate your dish!

• Use Quality Meat – Opt for high-quality beef chuck for tenderness and rich flavor in your chili.
• Toast Your Chilies – Toasting chilies before blending enhances their natural flavors, adding depth to your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Experiment with jalapeños or chipotle chilies based on your heat preference; start mild if unsure.
• Let It Simmer – A longer cooking time allows flavors to meld better; aim for at least 2 hours for optimal taste.
• Season Gradually – Add salt and pepper towards the end of cooking to fine-tune the flavors without over-seasoning initially.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot – Sear meat in batches to ensure it browns properly, which builds flavor in every bite.

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Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Pairing sides with Texas Chili Con Carne can enhance the meal’s heartiness and make it more enjoyable. Here are some great options!

1. Cornbread – Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread complements spicy chili perfectly while adding texture.
2. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast to the savory chili, balancing flavors beautifully.
3. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw provides freshness that lightens up the meal; consider a vinegar-based dressing.
4. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole adds richness; serve it alongside tortilla chips for an extra treat!
5. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice with tomatoes and spices intensifies the Tex-Mex vibe of this meal.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies bring another layer of flavor while keeping your meal colorful and healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas Chili Con Carne can be a rewarding experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the chili preparation: Many people forget to properly toast and blend the chilies before adding them to the pot. This step enhances flavor and aroma. Always take this time to elevate your dish.
• Boldly overcrowd the pot: When searing beef, don’t crowd the pot. This can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects texture. Sear in batches for better results.
• Boldly ignore seasoning: Not seasoning the beef before cooking is a mistake. Season generously with salt and pepper before searing for maximum flavor in your Texas Chili Con Carne.
• Boldly rush the simmering process: Skipping the slow simmer can result in tough meat. Allow at least 2–3 hours of simmering for tender chunks of beef that soak up all those rich flavors.
• Boldly forget about toppings: Serving without toppings can make your chili less exciting. Consider adding cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Texas Chili Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• It will keep well 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 until warmed through, about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Texas Chili Con Carne different?

Texas Chili Con Carne is unique because it typically does not include beans, focusing instead on meat and spices for flavor.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While beef chuck is traditional, you can also use brisket or even ground beef if you prefer a different texture.

How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on the type and amount of chilies used. Adjust jalapeños based on your heat preference.

Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish often tastes better after resting as flavors meld together. Just reheat before serving!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This hearty chili is perfect for meal prepping since it stores well and freezes beautifully, making it great for future meals.

Final Thoughts

Texas Chili Con Carne is a deliciously hearty dish that embodies bold Tex-Mex flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients and toppings according to your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

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