Texas Chili Recipe

This Texas chili recipe is a true celebration of flavor and tradition. It’s rich, hearty, and bursting with spice, making it perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in. With no beans in sight, this dish focuses on tender beef and a robust chili paste that packs a punch. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or trying it for the first time, this recipe will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: This Texas chili recipe delivers a deep, savory taste that captures the essence of traditional Texan cuisine.
• Meat Lover’s Delight: With 2.5 pounds of beef chuck, this dish is packed with protein, satisfying even the heartiest appetites.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the number of jalapenos or serrano peppers to suit your taste preferences.
• Easy Preparation: While it simmers for hours, most of the work happens upfront. Just set it and forget it!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at parties, family dinners, or simply enjoy a bowl on a chilly evening.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Texas chili recipe successfully, having the right tools and equipment is essential. They help streamline the cooking process and ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Food processor
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A heavy-bottomed pot allows for even cooking and prevents burning as you simmer your chili.
• Food processor: This tool helps create a smooth chili paste from your toasted peppers quickly and easily.
• Sharp knife: Ensures that chopping vegetables is safe and efficient, making prep time shorter.

Ingredients

This Texas chili recipe is authentic, meaty, just the right amount of spicy, and not a chili bean in sight. Learn how to make your own Texas chili.

Ingredients:
– 3 ancho peppers
– 3 pasilla peppers
– 3 New Mexican dried peppers (See my NOTES above on the dried pepper choices – I prefer a variety)
– 2.5 pounds beef chuck (cut into bite-sized cubes)
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium white onion (chopped)
– 3 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
– 2 serrano peppers (chopped (optional for extra heat – use extra jalapenos for milder))
– 4 cloves garlic (chopped)
– 2 cups beef stock (or use a dark beer)
– 2.5 cups water (+ more as needed (or use chicken or beef stock, or beer))
– 2 tablespoons masa harina (corn flour, for thickening if desired)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire

How to Make Texas Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your 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 Peppers

Remove from heat and cool enough to handle. Remove the stems and pour out the seeds.

Step 3: Blend Peppers

Soak the peppers in hot water for 20 minutes until they are nice and soft. 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 Beef

Add the cubed beef to a large bowl and toss with cumin along with salt and pepper. Make sure everything is nicely coated.

Step 5: Sear Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and cook for 6-7 minutes until it’s browned all over. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 6: Cook Vegetables

Add remaining olive oil along with jalapenos, serranos, and onion to the same pot; cook them down for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Return beef to the pot and stir in reserved chili paste. Cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance flavor development.

Step 9: Add Liquids

Stir in beef broth (or beer), 2 cups of water, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and masa harina. Bring it all to a quick boil.

Step 10: Simmer

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

Step 11: Serve

Once cooked through, serve your Texas chili with your favorite fixins!

How to Serve Texas Chili Recipe

Serving Texas chili is an art that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some tasty suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Chopped onions – Freshly diced onions add a nice crunch and sharp flavor.
• Shredded cheese – A mix of cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over hot chili.
• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream brings creaminess and balances the spice.
• Fresh cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous note.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – This classic pairing offers a sweet contrast to the spicy chili.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up chili and toppings.
• Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for a filling meal option.
• Pickled jalapeños – These add an extra kick and tanginess to each bite.

How to Perfect Texas Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Texas chili requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use quality meat – Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and flavor.
• Toast the spices – Toasting spices before adding them releases essential oils, enhancing flavor.
• Let it simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer for at least two hours helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning gradually – Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and heat level slowly.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Texas chili can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet, buttery cornbread complements the heat of the chili perfectly.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and acidity of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances out the spice in the chili.
4. Potato Salad – A classic side that adds heartiness without overshadowing the chili’s flavors.
5. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful sweetness alongside spicy dishes.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies bring a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Texas chili can be a rewarding experience, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when preparing your Texas chili recipe.

• Skipping the Toasting Step: Not toasting your dried peppers can lead to a flat flavor. Always toast them lightly in a dry pan to release their oils and enhance their taste.
• Using the Wrong Meat: Choosing lean cuts instead of beef chuck will result in dry chili. Opt for beef chuck or similar cuts that become tender with slow cooking.
• Overcooking or Undercooking: Not timing your simmer correctly can leave the beef tough or mushy. Aim for about 2 hours on low heat for perfectly tender meat.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Adding too many hot peppers without balancing flavors can overwhelm the chili. Taste as you go and adjust the heat gradually.
• Neglecting to Stir: Failing to stir occasionally may cause uneven cooking and sticking. Give your chili a gentle stir every 30 minutes for consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Texas Chili Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the chili expands when frozen.

Reheating Texas Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Texas chili recipe.

What makes this Texas Chili Recipe authentic?

This Texas chili recipe is authentic because it uses traditional ingredients like various dried peppers and avoids beans, which are not typically found in classic Texan chili.

Can I customize my Texas Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer peppers or changing the type of meat used based on your preferences.

How spicy is this Texas Chili Recipe?

The spiciness depends on the number of jalapenos and serranos you add. For a milder version, use more jalapenos and skip the serranos.

What can I serve with my Texas Chili Recipe?

Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice. Toppings like cheese, onions, and cilantro also enhance the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Texas chili recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adjusting spice levels or adding different toppings. Give it a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!