Authentic Texas Chili (Chili Con Carne) Recipe
Discover the true essence of Texas cuisine with this Authentic Texas Chili, where every ingredient tells a story of rich flavors and tradition. This hearty dish boasts chunks of tender beef chuck, slow-cooked to perfection without the distraction of beans or unnecessary tomato products. With smoked ancho peppers, fragrant spices, and a touch of masa harina for depth, this chili is a celebration of Texan heritage, echoing the flavors from the days of the trail drives. Take your time with this recipe, as good chili demands patience; the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld, resulting in a bowl that warms both body and soul. Serve it up with fluffy cornbread to soak up every delicious drop!
N/A
Servings
540
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef chuck
3 (boned and cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes, trimmed of fat)
bacon drippings
1 (tablespoon)
dried ancho peppers
6 (washed, stems and seeds removed, torn into 2-inch pieces)
cold water
5 (cups, divided)
oregano
1 (tablespoon)
cumin seed
1 (tablespoon, crushed)
salt
2 (teaspoons)
cayenne pepper
2 (teaspoons)
garlic cloves
2 (peeled and crushed)
masa harina
2 (tablespoons)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by grinding the beef chuck through the coarse setting of your meat grinder, ensuring your meat is well-prepared for a hearty chili.
2
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the bacon drippings. Brown the meat in small batches, allowing each piece to develop a rich, golden crust. Once browned, transfer the cooked beef to a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
3
3. Rinse the dried ancho peppers in cold water. Remove the stems and seeds, and tear the peppers into 2-inch pieces.
4
4. In a small saucepan, combine the torn ancho peppers with 2 cups of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover, letting it simmer for about 20 minutes until the peppers have softened.
5
5. Carefully drain the peppers, reserving the cooking water. Peel the skins from the softened peppers and place them into a food processor. Add the reserved liquid and pulse until you reach a smooth puree.
6
6. Add the pepper puree into the pot with the beef. Pour in an additional 3 cups of water and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over high heat.
7
7. Once boiling, reduce to a low simmer and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30 minutes to encourage the flavors to blend.
8
8. Stir in oregano, crushed cumin seed, salt, cayenne pepper, and crushed garlic cloves. Cover the pot and continue simmering for another 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9
9. Add in the masa harina to the chili, stirring well to incorporate. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
10
10. If the chili appears too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a small amount of boiling water. Taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as necessary for the perfect flavor.
11
11. Serve your Authentic Texas Chili hot, alongside hunks of freshly baked cornbread and a glass of tall iced tea for a delightful Texan experience.
Nutrition Information
34g
Fat
11g
Carbs
41g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Texas Chili?
Authentic Texas Chili, also known as Chili Con Carne, is a hearty meat-focused stew traditional to Texan cuisine that emphasizes beef and dried peppers over other fillers.
Does authentic Texas chili contain beans?
No, true Texas-style chili is famous for not containing any beans, focusing entirely on the quality and flavor of the meat and spices.
Are there tomatoes in this Texas chili recipe?
This authentic recipe does not use tomato products, relying instead on a puree of dried ancho peppers for its deep color and rich base.
What cut of beef is best for Texas chili?
Beef chuck is the preferred cut because its fat content and connective tissue break down during slow cooking to create a tender, flavorful dish.
Why should I use bacon drippings?
Bacon drippings are used to brown the meat, adding a layer of smoky richness and traditional flavor that oil cannot provide.
What are ancho peppers?
Ancho peppers are dried poblano peppers known for their mild heat and sweet, smoky, raisin-like flavor profile.
Can I use chili powder instead of whole ancho peppers?
While chili powder is a shortcut, using whole dried ancho peppers that are rehydrated and pureed provides a much deeper and more authentic flavor.
How do I prepare the dried ancho peppers?
Rinse them, remove the stems and seeds, tear them into pieces, boil for 20 minutes to soften, and then puree them with their cooking liquid.
Why do I need to peel the skins from the softened peppers?
Peeling the skins ensures the resulting pepper puree is perfectly smooth and free of any tough, papery bits.
What is masa harina?
Masa harina is a traditional Mexican corn flour made from nixtamalized corn, commonly used to make tortillas.
Why is masa harina added to the chili?
It acts as a thickening agent and adds a subtle, nutty corn flavor that complements the beef and peppers.
Is this Texas chili recipe gluten-free?
Yes, because it uses masa harina (corn flour) instead of wheat flour for thickening, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use pre-ground beef?
Yes, but for the best texture, it is recommended to use beef chuck that has been coarsely ground or hand-cut into small cubes.
How long does it take to cook this chili?
The total simmering time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
Why must I brown the meat in small batches?
Browning in small batches ensures the meat sears and develops a golden crust rather than steaming in its own juices.
What are the primary spices used?
The key spices are oregano, crushed cumin seeds, salt, and cayenne pepper for heat.
How do I thicken the chili if it is too watery?
The recipe uses masa harina to thicken the sauce; ensure you let it simmer for the full 30 minutes after adding it to achieve the right consistency.
What should I do if the chili is too thick?
If the consistency is too dense, you can easily adjust it by stirring in a small amount of boiling water.
How spicy is this recipe?
This chili has a moderate heat level from the cayenne pepper and the mild smokiness of the ancho peppers.
How can I adjust the heat level?
To make it milder, reduce the cayenne pepper; to make it spicier, increase the cayenne or add extra crushed garlic.
What is the best pot to use?
A large heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and prevents the meat from burning during the long simmer.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat and prepare the pepper puree first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours.
What are traditional side dishes for Texas chili?
It is traditionally served with freshly baked cornbread and a tall glass of cold iced tea.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, Texas chili freezes very well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Does the flavor improve over time?
Many people find that the flavor of chili improves the next day after the ingredients have had more time to meld together.
Can I substitute water with beef broth?
While water is traditional, using beef broth can add an even deeper savory flavor to the final dish.
What does 'Chili Con Carne' mean?
It is Spanish for 'chili with meat,' highlighting the dish's focus on those two main components.
Is there any dairy in this recipe?
No, this is a dairy-free recipe, although some people choose to garnish their serving with cheese or sour cream.
What is the purpose of the cumin seeds?
Crushed cumin seeds provide an earthy, aromatic quality that is essential to the signature scent and taste of Texas chili.