Try this Texas-style Carne con Chili! Tender beef in a smoky sauce, perfect for cook-offs or family meals. A must-try for chili lovers!
This blog post will dive into the rich flavors of Carne con Chili, a classic Tex-Mex dish. Carne con Chili is a comforting favorite with tender beef chunks simmered in a smoky, flavorful sauce. While it takes time to prepare, it’s one of the most authentic and delicious chilis out there.
Whether you’re prepping for a chili cook-off or want to impress with genuine Texas-style chili, this recipe is perfect. Unlike other versions, true Texas chili uses cubed beef instead of ground and skips the beans, though some add tomatoes for extra depth.
Preparation Time
Given its complexity, this recipe requires over an hour of active cooking and prep time, plus several hours of simmering. It’s best tackled on a weekend when you have a bit more time. Consider making a double batch—freezing some for future meals or using leftovers in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for rice or baked potatoes. Pair your Carne con Chili with cornbread muffins or a slice of classic cornbread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Spices (Ancho Chile Pepper, Chipotle Chile Pepper, Cumin, Oregano, Coriander, Cinnamon): These spices form the base of a deep, multi-layered chili flavor.
- Cornmeal: Acts as a thickener, adding a hearty texture and a hint of corn flavor.
- Beef Chuck Roast: This cut becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, providing a rich, beefy base for the chili.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky depth to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor.
- Yellow Onions, Garlic Cloves, Jalapeño Chiles: This trio provides the aromatic foundation for the chili.
- Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Contributes moisture and savory depth while keeping sodium levels moderate.
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Offer a tangy, slightly sweet base, essential for the chili’s texture and taste.
- Molasses: Introduces a deep, rich sweetness that balances the spices and heat.
- Natural Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: A surprising yet essential ingredient that adds complexity and a subtle bitterness.
Instructions
Prepare the Chili Sauce:
- Toast the dried chiles in a hot, dry skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Place the toasted chiles in a bowl and pour hot water over them. Let them soak for about 20 minutes until softened.
- Drain the chiles and blend them in a blender with 1 cup of fresh water until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining bits of skin and seeds. Set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to coat with the spices and vegetables.
- Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Add the prepared chili sauce to the pot and mix everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese if desired, alongside warm tortillas or over rice.
Tips for Perfect Carne con Chili
- Beef Selection: For the best texture, use beef chuck or another cut with a good amount of marbling. It will become tender and flavorful as it cooks.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. Conversely, add more if you like extra heat.
- Chili Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of dried chiles for a unique flavor profile. Mulato or pasilla chiles can add a different depth to your sauce.
Conclusion
Carne con Chili is a dish that embodies the bold and vibrant flavors of Dallas Tex-Mex cuisine. With its tender beef and rich, spicy sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe will bring a touch of Dallas’ culinary charm to your table. Enjoy!
Discover More Tex-Mex Delights
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