Texas Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty dish that warms the soul and brings friends and family together, this Texas chili recipe is just what you need! It’s a true crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, this chili will be the star of your table. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love.

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of simmering beef and spices wafting through your kitchen. This Texas chili recipe is not only authentic but also incredibly meaty and delightfully spicy—just how chili should be! And best of all, there are no beans in sight, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer their chili pure and simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: This recipe uses straightforward ingredients. You can whip it up without any fuss.
• Flavorful: The combination of dried peppers and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: With its rich taste and hearty texture, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dish in advance; it tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Texas chili requires just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili Base

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

For the Veggies

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

For the Liquid

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

For Thickeners and Flavor

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

Variations

This Texas chili recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adjust it to match your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some beans: If you’re open to beans, black beans or kidney beans can add texture and flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a filling vegetarian version.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce!

How to Make Texas Chili Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Paste

Start by creating your chili paste! Lightly toast the dried peppers in a dry pan for about one to two minutes on each side. This step releases their oils and enhances their flavor, giving your chili a rich base.

Step 2: Soak the Peppers

Once toasted, remove them from heat and let them cool enough to handle. Remove the stems and pour out any seeds before soaking them in hot water for about 20 minutes until they’re soft. This process helps rehydrate the peppers so they blend smoothly into your paste.

Step 3: Blend Your Paste

After soaking, add the softened peppers to a food processor along with half to one cup of soaking water and a bit of salt. Blend until smooth. Set this delicious paste aside; it will be key in developing those robust flavors later on!

Step 4: Season Your Beef

In a large bowl, toss your cubed beef with cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated. This seasoning ensures every bite is flavorful right from the start!

Step 5: Sear the Beef

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add your seasoned beef cubes and sear them for about 6-7 minutes until browned all over. This step locks in juices and adds depth to your chili.

Step 6: Sauté Your Veggies

Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil along with chopped jalapeños, serranos, and onion. Sauté them down for about five minutes until they’re tender; this brings out their sweetness.

Step 7: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic with your sautéed veggies and cook for another minute until fragrant—this step will elevate your dish’s aroma!

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return the seared beef back into the pot and stir in that reserved chili paste you made earlier. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes to meld those fantastic flavors.

Step 9: Add Liquids

Pour in your beef stock (or broth), add two cups of water along with brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to low.

Step 10: Simmer Low & Slow

Cover your pot and let it simmer gently for about two hours—or longer if using tougher cuts—until that beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender! Remember to stir every 30 minutes; if it gets too thick, simply add more water as needed.

Step 11: Serve It Up

When ready to serve, dish out generous portions into bowls topped with any fixings you love—think cheese, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro!

Now that you’re armed with this Texas chili recipe, get ready for compliments from everyone around your table! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Chili Recipe

Making the perfect Texas chili is all about the details, and these tips will help you achieve chili greatness!

• Use fresh peppers: Freshly toasting your dried peppers enhances their flavor, making your chili richer and more aromatic. This step really sets the foundation for an authentic taste.

• Let it simmer: Patience is key! Allowing your chili to simmer for a longer time will help the flavors meld beautifully and make the beef incredibly tender. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to customize the heat according to your taste! If you prefer milder chili, skip the serrano peppers or reduce the amount of jalapeños. Remember, you can always add heat later but can’t take it out once it’s in!

• Taste as you go: Always taste your chili during cooking! Adjusting seasoning throughout the process ensures a balanced flavor profile that suits your palate perfectly.

• Consider a thicker texture: If you like a thicker chili, don’t hesitate to add extra masa harina. Just remember to dissolve it in some broth or water before mixing it into the pot to avoid clumping.

How to Serve Texas Chili Recipe

Serving up your Texas chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the rich flavors of the chili.
• Diced avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness and adds a lovely texture contrast.
• Shredded cheese (non-dairy options available): A sprinkle of cheese can provide creaminess and additional flavor if you’re looking for something indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: The slight sweetness of cornbread pairs wonderfully with spicy chili, making it a classic combo that everyone loves.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying alongside it as a satisfying side.
• Rice: Whether white or brown, rice is great for soaking up all those delicious juices and balancing out the meal.
• Pickled jalapenos: For those who crave an extra kick, pickled jalapeños offer a tangy flavor that complements any bowl of chili beautifully.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving ideas and pro tips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy creating an unforgettable Texas chili experience! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this Texas chili recipe is how perfect it is for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deepen and making mealtime a breeze on busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4-5 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For easy meal preparation, consider portioning it out into individual servings before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you’re short on time.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
• If it has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious Texas chili recipe!

Can I make Texas Chili Recipe without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with plant-based meat alternatives or even hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian version.

What makes this Texas Chili Recipe authentic?

This Texas chili recipe is authentic because it uses traditional ingredients like dried peppers and avoids beans, staying true to classic Texan styles.

How spicy is this Texas Chili Recipe?

The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference! You can add extra jalapeños or serrano peppers for more heat, or leave them out for a milder dish.

Can I serve this Texas Chili Recipe with toppings?

Yes! This chili pairs wonderfully with toppings like shredded cheese (dairy alternative), diced onions, cilantro, or avocado slices for added flavor and texture.

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

The total cooking time is around 2 hours and 40 minutes, but most of that time is spent simmering to develop rich flavors and tender meat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this authentic Texas chili recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this chili is sure to impress. Happy cooking!