Texas Chili Recipe

This Texas chili recipe is a must-try for chili lovers. Packed with rich flavors and just the right amount of heat, it’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. With no beans in sight, this hearty dish lets the meat and spices shine, making it an authentic crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This Texas chili recipe captures the true essence of Tex-Mex cuisine with a perfect blend of spices and meats.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious chili without any hassle.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapenos and serrano peppers based on your preference.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is or with your favorite toppings like cheese, onions, or avocado for added flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your cooking adventure, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. The right equipment makes all the difference when preparing this Texas chili recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food processor
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the chili evenly and allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Food processor: Helps create a smooth chili paste from dried peppers, enhancing the flavor depth in your dish.
• Chopping board & Knife: Necessary for efficiently chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients, ensuring safety and precision.

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Ingredients

This Texas chili recipe features a robust selection of ingredients that come together to create a hearty dish.

For the Chili Base

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

For Flavor Enhancement

• 1 medium white onion (chopped)
• 3 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
• 2 serrano peppers (optional for extra heat)
• 4 cloves garlic (chopped)

For Cooking Liquid

• 2 cups beef stock (or use a dark beef broth)
• 2.5 cups water (+ more as needed)

For Thickeners and Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour, for thickening if desired)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Texas Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Paste

Start your chili paste first by lightly toasting the dried peppers in a dry pan about a minute or 2 per side. This will help to release the oils.

Step 2: Soak and Blend Peppers

Remove from heat and cool enough to handle. Remove the stems and pour out the seeds. Soak the peppers in hot water for 20 minutes, or until they are nice and soft.

Step 3: Blend the Mixture

Add them to a food processor with 1/2 to 1 cup of the soaking water and a bit of salt to taste. Process until nice and smooth. Set aside for now.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Add the cubed beef to a large bowl and toss with cumin along with salt and pepper until fully coated.

Step 5: Brown the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef. Cook for 6-7 minutes until seared all over. Remove the beef from pot once done.

Step 6: Sauté Vegetables

Add remaining olive oil to the pot along with chopped jalapenos, serranos, and onion. Cook down for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in garlic; cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked beef to pot; stir in reserved chili paste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so flavors can develop further.

Step 9: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Stir in beef broth (or dark beef broth), add water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and masa harina; bring mixture to boil quickly.

Step 10: Simmer

Reduce heat; cover pot and let it simmer for about 2 hours or until beef is tender. Stir every 30 minutes; add water if too thick.

Step 11: Serve

Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, onions, or avocado!

With these steps followed carefully, you’ll enjoy a rich bowl of Texas chili that brings comfort on any occasion!

How to Serve Texas Chili Recipe

Serving Texas chili is an opportunity to get creative and add your favorite toppings. This dish shines on its own, but the right accompaniments can elevate it to new heights. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Toppings for Your Texas Chili

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy texture and balances the spice.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the heat of the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the chili.
• Cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a fresh herbaceous note that enhances the overall taste.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can help cool down the heat and add richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a delightful, slightly sweet addition that pairs well with chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be used for dipping or as a base for chili nachos.
• Rice: A scoop of fluffy rice serves as a perfect base for your Texas chili and absorbs all those delicious juices.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Texas chili recipe takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your chili is always a hit.

• Bold Flavors: Use a mix of dried peppers for depth. Ancho, pasilla, and New Mexican peppers provide complex flavors.
• Quality Meat: Choose high-quality beef chuck for tenderness and flavor. The better the cut, the more satisfying your chili will be.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Letting your chili simmer allows flavors to meld together beautifully. Don’t rush this process!
• Adjust Spices Gradually: Start with smaller amounts of spices like cumin and gradually increase them to suit your taste without overpowering the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Texas chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread contrasts beautifully with spicy chili, making it an ideal companion.
2. Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the rich sauce from the chili, providing a satisfying base.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, tortilla chips are perfect for dipping in or topping with chili.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chili.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a cooling effect against the heat of the chili.
7. Guacamole (optional): Smooth guacamole brings richness and helps temper any spiciness from the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas chili can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your meat properly before cooking will lead to bland chili. Ensure you season the beef with salt, pepper, and cumin beforehand.
• Bold overcooking: Cooking the chili for too long can make the beef tough. Monitor your cooking time and check for tenderness regularly.
• Bold skimping on peppers: Using fewer peppers than called for can result in a lack of flavor. Stick to the recommended variety and quantity of dried peppers for depth.
• Bold ignoring the paste: Skipping the chili paste creation step removes essential flavors. Toast and blend your dried peppers for a robust base.
• Bold neglecting water adjustments: Forgetting to adjust the liquid can lead to overly thick or thin chili. Keep additional water or broth handy to reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Texas Chili Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Texas Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Texas chili recipe.

What is a Texas Chili Recipe?

Texas chili is a hearty dish made without beans and focuses on meat, spices, and peppers for flavor. The absence of beans is what makes it distinctly Texan.

How spicy is Texas Chili?

The spiciness of Texas chili depends on the types of peppers used. You can adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or serranos according to your preference.

Can I customize this Texas Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different types of meat like turkey or lamb or incorporate various spices like smoked paprika for unique flavors.

What should I serve with Texas Chili?

Texas chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or avocado slices. Garnishing with fresh cilantro or diced onions also enhances its flavor profile.

How long does it take to make this Texas Chili Recipe?

The total time from prep to serving is approximately 170 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking times.

Final Thoughts

This Texas chili recipe is not only rich in flavor but also offers versatility for personalization. Whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and find your perfect balance!