Chili Recipe
Texas-style chili, often called a “bowl of red,” is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish known for its bold spices and tender beef. This award-winning recipe brings out deep layers of taste with a perfect blend of chili powders, smoked paprika, and a slow-simmered broth. Whether you’re cooking for a chili cook-off or a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
Spice Blend:
- 4 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp salt, pepper, and garlic mix (OG seasoning)
- 1 tbsp WOW seasoning
- 2 tbsp Better Than Bouillon (beef flavor)
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp masa harina (for thickening)
- 1/2 cup mirepoix (onion, celery, and carrot, sautéed)
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tbsp oil (if using lean ground beef)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Heat a large pan over high heat.
- Add the ground beef in batches, ensuring it gets a deep brown sear. This step develops rich flavors.
- Drain excess water or fat if necessary.
- Transfer the browned meat to a large pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and bell peppers.
- Cook over medium heat until onions turn translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Roma tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Transfer the mixture to the chili pot.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
- Add water or beef broth to the chili pot, just enough to cover the meat.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Stir in all the spices (chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, cayenne, OG seasoning, and WOW seasoning).
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add Mirepoix and Masa Harina
- After an hour of simmering, stir in mirepoix for extra depth of flavor.
- Once the chili has thickened and reached desired consistency, mix masa harina with a little water and stir it in.
- Simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the chili cool slightly to allow excess oil to rise, then skim it off if desired.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese, crackers, or a side of pinto beans.
- Add extra heat with habanero powder or chili flakes if preferred.
Tips for the Best Texas-Style Chili
- Sear the Meat Properly: Browning over high heat enhances the depth of flavor.
- Layer the Seasonings: Adding spices at different stages helps develop a more robust taste.
- Use Beef Broth or Bouillon: This enhances the beefy flavor better than just water.
- Let it Simmer: A longer cooking time results in a richer, more concentrated chili.
- Masa Harina for Thickening: This adds a subtle, earthy note that complements the chili.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Fats | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Protein | 32g |