Authentic Chili Colorado with Beef
Experience the bold and rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this Authentic Chili Colorado with Beef. This dish showcases succulent chunks of tender beef shoulder simmered in a deep red sauce that gets its vibrant color and robust taste from high-quality chili powder. Unlike the American interpretation of chili, this recipe emphasizes the simplicity of its ingredients, focusing entirely on the beef and the exquisite red sauce. Ideal for those who appreciate genuine Mexican dishes, this Chili Colorado is perfect for serving on its own, accompanied by fluffy Mexican rice and creamy refried beans, or used as a filling for delicious burritos. Dive into a bowl of authentic flavors and savor every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef shoulder
2-3 lbs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
flour
1/2 cup (for dredging the beef)
oil
4 tablespoons (for browning the beef)
chili powder
5 teaspoons (preferably pure from New Mexico or California)
ground cumin
2 teaspoons
garlic powder
2 teaspoons
onion powder
1 teaspoon
tomato paste
6 ounces
water
2 cups
salt and pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the beef: spread the flour on a large plate. Dredge each beef cube in the flour, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess flour; this will help thicken the sauce later.
2
In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the floured beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the beef on all sides until a nice crust forms, which will enhance the flavor. Remove the beef and set aside.
3
In the same pot, lower the heat slightly and add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Carefully add the tomato paste and mix well with the spices, then pour in the water while scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4
Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally until the beef is tender and easily shreds when prodded with a fork.
5
Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Chili Colorado hot with traditional sides like Mexican rice and refried beans, or use it as a hearty filling for burritos.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Chili Colorado?
Authentic Chili Colorado is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of tender beef shoulder simmered in a rich, deep red sauce made from chili powder and spices.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
This recipe recommends using 2-3 lbs of beef shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes for the best texture and flavor.
Why is the beef coated in flour?
Dredging the beef in flour before browning helps create a savory crust and acts as a thickening agent for the sauce during the long simmer.
What kind of chili powder should I use?
For an authentic taste, use high-quality pure chili powder, preferably sourced from New Mexico or California chilies.
How long does it take to cook Chili Colorado?
The beef needs to simmer on low heat for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours until it is tender enough to shred with a fork.
How do I brown the beef properly?
Heat 4 tablespoons of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot and brown the floured beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure a good crust.
What ingredients are in the red sauce?
The sauce is a blend of chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, tomato paste, and water.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish is known for its bold and robust flavors. While it has a kick from the chili powder, it emphasizes richness over extreme heat.
Can I use this as a burrito filling?
Yes, Chili Colorado makes an excellent, hearty filling for traditional Mexican burritos.
What should I serve with Chili Colorado?
It is best served with traditional sides like fluffy Mexican rice and creamy refried beans.
Why do I sauté the spices first?
Stirring the spices in the hot oil for about 30 seconds before adding liquids helps release their essential oils and deepens the flavor.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
Tomato paste adds body to the sauce and provides a subtle tangy depth that complements the earthy chilies.
How much water is needed for the sauce?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of water to create the base of the simmering liquid.
Should the pot be covered while simmering?
Yes, you should cover the pot and cook over low heat to trap moisture and ensure the beef becomes succulent.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is perfectly cooked when it is tender and easily shreds when prodded with a fork.
Is there any onion or garlic in this dish?
This version uses 2 teaspoons of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder to maintain a smooth sauce texture.
What does the name 'Colorado' refer to?
In Spanish, 'Colorado' means 'red-colored,' referring to the vibrant deep red hue of the chili sauce.
Does this chili contain beans?
Traditional Chili Colorado focuses strictly on meat and sauce; beans are typically served as a side dish rather than cooked in the chili.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe includes 2 teaspoons of ground cumin to provide a warm, earthy undertone.
What type of pot should I use?
A heavy-bottomed pot is recommended as it distributes heat evenly and prevents the sauce from burning during the long simmer.
How much chili powder is required?
The recipe uses 5 teaspoons of pure chili powder to achieve its signature color and taste.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, you should season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste before simmering and adjust again before serving.
What is the role of the oil in this recipe?
The oil is used at medium-high heat to sear the beef cubes, which locks in flavor and creates a base for the sauce.
Is it necessary to shake off excess flour?
Yes, shaking off excess flour ensures the beef browns cleanly without leaving burnt flour clumps in the pot.
What are the browned bits at the bottom of the pot?
Known as fond, these bits are packed with flavor; you should scrape them up when adding water to incorporate them into the sauce.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is often categorized as a one-dish meal, though it is usually accompanied by rice or tortillas.
What is the first step in preparing the beef?
The first step is to spread flour on a large plate and dredge each beef cube to ensure an even coating.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, Chili Colorado often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While not specified by count, the 2-3 lbs of beef shoulder typically serve a family of 4 to 6 people.
What is the texture of the final sauce?
The final sauce should be thick, smooth, and clinging to the tender chunks of beef.