Introduction:
Texas Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Texan cuisine. Unlike other chili recipes, traditional Texas chili forgoes beans and focuses on tender chunks of beef, a rich tomato base, and a blend of spices that create a deep, satisfying heat. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a game day gathering, this Texas Chili Con Carne recipe will be a crowd-pleaser. Follow along to create this classic dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour) or all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef in batches, browning it on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Cook the spices with the onions and garlic for about 2 minutes to enhance their flavors.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, water, and brown sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Cover the pot and let the chili simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- If the chili becomes too thick, add a bit more water or beef broth as needed.
- Thicken the Chili (Optional):
- If you prefer a thicker chili, mix the masa harina or all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the chili and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
- Serve the Texas Chili Con Carne hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
Conclusion:
This authentic Texas Chili Con Carne recipe captures the bold flavors and hearty textures that make this dish a beloved classic. Whether you’re a seasoned chili enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich, spicy goodness. Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy a taste of Texas right at home!
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FAQ’s:
- Can I use ground beef instead of beef chuck roast?
- Yes, you can use ground beef if you prefer. However, using beef chuck roast cut into cubes will give you a more traditional texture and richer flavor.
- What is masa harina, and why is it used in this recipe?
- Masa harina is a type of corn flour commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It is used in this recipe as an optional thickening agent to give the chili a slightly thicker consistency and a subtle corn flavor.
- Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Is it necessary to add brown sugar to the chili?
- The brown sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor. If you prefer, you can omit it or adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- What can I serve with Texas Chili Con Carne?
- Texas Chili Con Carne pairs well with cornbread, rice, tortilla chips, or a side salad. Toppings like shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, and fresh cilantro are also popular.
