Texas Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul, this Texas chili recipe is just what you need. There’s something truly special about a big pot of chili bubbling away on the stove, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. It’s the kind of dish that brings family and friends together, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s so satisfying and flavorful that it might just become your go-to recipe!

This Texas chili is authentic and meaty, with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. And let me tell you, there’s not a single bean in sight! Let’s dive in and discover how to create this delicious comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this Texas chili recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Flavorful: The combination of toasted dried peppers and spices creates a rich, robust flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat level to suit your taste by varying the types and amounts of peppers you use.
• Make Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it too! Serve with their favorite toppings for a fun twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this comforting bowl of goodness, you’ll need some wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find and pack a punch of flavor!

For the Chili Base

• 3 ancho peppers
• 3 pasilla peppers
• 3 New Mexican dried peppers (I like using a variety)
• 2.5 pounds beef chuck (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Veggies

• 1 medium white onion (chopped)
• 3 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
• 2 serrano peppers (chopped, optional for extra heat – use more jalapenos for milder)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped)

For Cooking

• 2 cups beef stock (or dark beef broth)
• 2.5 cups water (+ more as needed)
• 2 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour, for thickening if desired)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Variations

One of the best things about this Texas chili recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground beef or turkey instead of cubed beef for a different texture and flavor.
• Add beans: If you’re not strictly following traditional Texas recipes, feel free to toss in some black beans or kidney beans for extra heartiness.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with your favorite veggies or plant-based meat substitutes and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different types of peppers or add hot sauce to dial up the heat!

How to Make Texas Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Paste

Start your chili paste by lightly toasting those dried peppers in a dry pan for about one to two minutes per side. This step is key because it releases their natural oils and enhances their flavors. Once done, let them cool before removing the stems and seeds.

Step 2: Soak the Peppers

Once your toasted peppers are ready, soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until they soften beautifully. This step helps create that silky-smooth paste we’ll mix into our chili later.

Step 3: Blend It Up

Transfer those softened peppers into a food processor along with half to one cup of the soaking water. Add a pinch of salt and blend until smooth. This chili paste will be packed with flavor!

Step 4: Season Your Beef

Place your cubed beef in a large bowl and season it generously with cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece gets coated well—it not only adds flavor but also helps form that nice crust when searing.

Step 5: Sear the Beef

In a large pot, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides—about six to seven minutes. This step locks in all those delicious juices!

Step 6: Sauté Your Veggies

Remove the seared beef from the pot and add another tablespoon of olive oil along with chopped jalapeños, serranos (if using), and onions. Sauté them down until they’re tender—around five minutes—bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Garlic adds an aromatic touch that elevates your chili even further.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return that gorgeous seared beef back into the pot along with your reserved chili paste. Stir everything together well and allow it to cook for an additional two to three minutes—this melds all those scrumptious flavors together.

Step 9: Simmer Away

Now stir in your beef broth (or dark beef broth), two cups of water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and masa harina if desired. Bring this mixture to a quick boil before reducing heat—cover it up and let it simmer gently for about two hours or until that beef becomes tender enough to melt in your mouth!

Step 10: Final Touches

Give your chili a good stir every thirty minutes or so while it’s simmering. If it thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash more water. Just keep an eye on consistency—you want it hearty but not too thick.

Step 11: Serve It Up!

Finally, serve your Texas chili hot with any favorite fixins like cheese, green onions, or sour cream! Enjoy every delicious bite—it’s truly comforting food at its best!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Chili Recipe

Making Texas chili is a labor of love, and these tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures!

• Choose your peppers wisely: Different dried peppers bring unique flavors and heat levels. Mixing varieties like ancho, pasilla, and New Mexican adds depth to your chili.

• Sear the beef properly: Searing the meat before simmering locks in flavor and creates a delightful crust. This step is crucial for maximizing the richness of your chili.

• Don’t rush the simmering process: Allowing your chili to simmer slowly helps meld the flavors beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef becomes, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

• Adjust thickness as needed: If your chili gets too thick during cooking, don’t hesitate to add extra water or broth. Maintaining a nice consistency is key for serving over rice or with cornbread.

• Taste as you go: Chili can be very personal when it comes to seasoning. Always taste throughout cooking to find the right balance of spices and heat that suits your palate.

How to Serve Texas Chili Recipe

Presenting Texas chili can be just as fun as making it! Get creative with garnishes and sides to elevate this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a bright, fresh flavor that contrasts nicely with the spicy chili.
• Diced avocado: Creamy avocado provides a cooling effect and complements the heat perfectly.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving enhances all the flavors while adding a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs wonderfully with spicy chili, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Rice: Serving your chili over white or brown rice makes for a filling meal and absorbs all those delicious juices.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying texture and are perfect for scooping up every last bit of chili.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the chili, making it an excellent side choice.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Texas chili will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every savory bite of this authentic dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label and date your containers for easy identification.

Freezing

• Portion out the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
• For best results, use vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Texas chili recipe!

What makes a Texas Chili Recipe different from other chili recipes?

Texas chili is known for its focus on meat rather than beans. This recipe showcases tender beef chuck simmered with a rich blend of spices and dried peppers, creating a hearty and authentic flavor profile.

Can I make adjustments to this Texas Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels by using more or fewer jalapenos and serranos. You can also experiment with different cuts of beef or even substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I thicken my Texas Chili Recipe?

If you find your chili is too thin, simply stir in additional masa harina during cooking. This corn flour will help achieve that perfect thick consistency characteristic of traditional Texas chili.

Is this Texas Chili Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is fantastic for meal prep! The flavors improve over time, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking. You can easily store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

What sides pair well with this Texas Chili Recipe?

Consider serving your Texas chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the chili beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this authentic Texas chili recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth to any gathering or family dinner. I encourage you to gather your loved ones around the table and share a bowl of this flavorful goodness. Happy cooking and savor every bite!

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