Texas Chili Con Carne

This Texas Chili Con Carne is a robust, flavorful dish that embodies the true spirit of Tex-Mex cuisine. With tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich homemade chile purée, this chili is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Its bold flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser, ideal for serving alongside tortilla chips or cornbread.

Why You’ll Love This Texas Chili Con Carne

This dish is all about rich flavors and satisfying ingredients.

• Hearty and Filling: This chili is packed with protein from the beef and ample vegetables, making it a complete meal on its own.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of various chilies and spices results in an unforgettable taste experience you won’t want to miss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as-is, or customize with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: With a large yield, this recipe is great for preparing meals ahead of time; just store in the fridge or freeze for later!
• Easy to Make: The steps are straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create an impressive dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking Texas Chili Con Carne much easier.

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 simmering the chili and ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Blender: Used to create the smooth chile purée that forms the base of the chili’s flavor.
• Chef’s knife: Helps chop vegetables quickly and efficiently, saving time during prep.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot.

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

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 it, and let steep for 5–10 minutes until softened. Transfer this mixture to a blender. Remove the center insert of the lid; cover with a kitchen towel, then blend starting 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; season generously with salt and pepper.

Working in batches, sear the beef for about 3 minutes per side while avoiding overcrowding the pot. Transfer seared beef to a bowl when done, repeating with remaining beef while 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 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 this mixture to a simmer before reducing heat to low. Cook for about 2–3 hours while stirring occasionally until beef becomes tender. Adjust consistency by adding more broth or tomato purée as desired.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season your chili with salt and pepper near the end of cooking according to taste preferences.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as tortilla chips or shredded cheese!

How to Serve Texas Chili Con Carne

Serving Texas Chili Con Carne is an opportunity to enhance the dish with flavorful toppings and sides. The robust flavor of the chili pairs perfectly with a variety of accompaniments that cater to different tastes.

Toppings

• Tortilla chips: Crunchy and perfect for dipping, they add texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on hot chili, adding richness.
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh and vibrant, it brightens up the flavors.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime adds a zesty finish that balances the spice.
• Sour cream: Creamy and cooling, it complements the heat of the chili.
• Diced onions: Use green, purple, or yellow onions for added crunch and flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up the chili.
• Rice: Serve over white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Baked potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a comforting dish.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Texas Chili Con Carne takes practice, but these tips can help you elevate your dish to new heights.

• Bold spices: Use fresh spices for deeper flavors; they make all the difference.
• Quality meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and rich taste.
• Adjust heat level: Control spice by modifying jalapeño amounts or opting for chipotle chilies for smokiness.
• Slow simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer develops complex flavors; patience pays off!
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning at various stages to ensure balance in flavors.
• Let it rest: Allowing chili to sit for a while enhances its flavor before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Texas Chili Con Carne can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious suggestions that complement this hearty dish.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, it’s perfect for soaking up the sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy and delicious, guacamole offers a cool contrast to spicy chili.
4. Fried plantains: Sweet and crispy plantains bring a delightful twist alongside savory flavors.
5. Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice adds substance and absorbs any extra sauce beautifully.
6. Mexican street corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with crema, cheese, and spices is irresistible next to chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Texas Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them for perfect chili every time.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting the chilies can result in a flat flavor. Always toast your chilies until aromatic to enhance their taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Searing too much beef at once can steam it instead of browning. Work in batches for a nice sear and deeper flavor.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Waiting until the end to season can lead to bland chili. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap canned tomatoes or broth can ruin your chili’s flavor. Opt for high-quality, low-sodium options for the best results.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process can leave tough beef. Be patient—allow 2–3 hours for tender meat and rich flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Texas Chili Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually around 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Texas Chili Con Carne?

Texas Chili Con Carne is a traditional dish featuring tender beef simmered with robust spices and chilies, without beans, making it rich and hearty.

Can I customize my Texas Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like beans or different types of meat according to your preference while maintaining its essence.

How spicy is Texas Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on the type of chilies you use. Adjust by adding fewer jalapeños or opting for milder varieties if you prefer less heat.

Can I make Texas Chili Con Carne ahead of time?

Yes! Making it a day ahead enhances its flavor as it allows all the spices to meld beautifully together.

What are some good toppings for Texas Chili Con Carne?

Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Texas Chili Con Carne is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. With its deep flavors and customizable nature, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or spice levels—each bowl can be uniquely yours!