Description

Authentic Texas Chili, also known as chili con carne, is a bold and hearty dish made with tender beef chuck, a rich chili pepper sauce, and smoky spices. True to tradition, it contains no beans or tomatoes, just layers of deep, savory flavor slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

3 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 dried ancho chilies

2 dried guajillo chilies

1 dried pasilla chili

1 tbsp cumin seeds

1 tbsp smoked paprika

2 tsp dried oregano

1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional for richness)

1 medium onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

3 cups beef broth

2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp kosher salt (more to taste)

1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 tbsp oil (for searing)

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Instructions

Remove stems and seeds from dried chilies. Toast them in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then soak in hot water for 20 minutes.
Drain soaked chilies and blend with 1 cup beef broth, cumin seeds, oregano, paprika, cocoa powder, and garlic until smooth to form a paste. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until soft and translucent.
Return beef to the pot. Stir in chili paste, remaining beef broth, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2.5–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if too thick.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
Let chili rest uncovered for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

For extra heat, add chipotle or serrano peppers.

Letting the chili rest enhances flavor and thickens the sauce.

Pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or baked potatoes.

Chili tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.

Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 1/2 cups)
Calories: 480
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 120mg