Authentic Texas Chili Con Carne
Dive into the heart of Texas with this Authentic Texas Chili Con Carne recipe. Ideal for any chili enthusiast, this dish embodies the essence of true Texan flavors with its rich and robust combination of spices, tender beef, and a perfect balance of savory broth. While some may argue for the inclusion of beans, true aficionados know that a real Texas chili is all about the meatiness without distractions. This hearty chili will become a family favorite, perfect for gatherings, cook-offs, or a comforting dinner on a chilly evening. Experience the deep, mouthwatering taste and spice that makes this chili an unmatched classic!
8
Servings
200
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Top Round Beef
2.5 lbs (Trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
Olive Oil
1 tablespoon (For browning the beef)
Beef Broth
2 cups (Low-sodium recommended)
Chicken Broth
1 cup (Low-sodium recommended)
Tomato Sauce
1 cup (Plain or low-sodium)
Beef Bouillon Cube
1 (To enrich the broth)
Chicken Bouillon Cube
1 (To enhance the flavors)
Onion Flakes
1 tablespoon (For base flavor)
Cayenne Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Adjust to taste)
Chili Powder
8 tablespoons (Divided among the different dumps)
Garlic Powder
1 tablespoon + 1/4 teaspoon (For depth of flavor)
Cumin
2 1/2 tablespoons (For warmth)
Brown Sugar
1/2 teaspoon (To balance flavors)
Sazon Goya
1 (1/4 ounce) packet (For additional flavor and color (optional))
Instructions
1
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and brown it until it's no longer pink, but avoid draining any juices to maintain flavor.
2
Once the beef is browned, pour in both the beef and chicken broths, followed by the tomato sauce. Stir in the beef and chicken bouillon cubes until dissolved and bring the mixture to a boil.
3
After boiling, add the 'First Dump' of spices (onion flakes, cayenne, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin) to the pot. Reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover, and allow it to simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally.
4
After one hour, take a moment to check the consistency of the chili. If it's too thin, you may add a bit more broth. Add the 'Second Dump' of spices (additional chili powder, cayenne, cumin, brown sugar, garlic powder) and mix well.
5
Cover the pot again and let the chili simmer for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
6
Finally, add the 'Third Dump' of ingredients, ensuring everything is well mixed, and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.
7
Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Texas chili, proudly showcasing its rich flavors!
Nutrition Information
10
Fat
7.5
Carbs
20
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Texas Chili Con Carne?
Authentic Texas Chili Con Carne is a rich, meat-centric stew that focuses on tender beef and a complex blend of spices, traditionally prepared without beans.
Does this Texas chili recipe contain beans?
No, this authentic recipe adheres to Texan tradition by excluding beans to focus entirely on the flavor and texture of the meat.
What cut of beef is best for this chili?
The recipe recommends using 2.5 lbs of Top Round Beef, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes.
How should I prepare the beef?
The beef should be trimmed of excess fat and cut into small 1/2-inch cubes for the best texture.
What oil should I use to brown the meat?
Use one tablespoon of olive oil to brown the cubed beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Should I drain the juices after browning the beef?
No, avoid draining any juices after browning to ensure the final dish maintains maximum flavor.
What liquid bases are used in this chili?
The recipe uses a combination of 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of tomato sauce.
Why does the recipe use both beef and chicken bouillon?
Using both beef and chicken bouillon cubes helps to enrich the broth and create a more complex, layered flavor profile.
What is included in the 'First Dump' of spices?
The first spice addition includes onion flakes, cayenne pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin.
How long does the chili simmer after the first spice dump?
After the first dump of spices, cover the pot and allow it to simmer on low heat for one hour.
What ingredients are in the 'Second Dump'?
The second addition consists of more chili powder, cayenne, cumin, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
How long is the second simmering period?
After adding the second dump of spices, let the chili simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
What is the purpose of adding brown sugar?
A small amount of brown sugar (1/2 teaspoon) is used to balance the savory and spicy flavors of the chili.
What is the 'Third Dump' in the instructions?
The third dump is the final addition of ingredients and adjustments, which are mixed in and cooked for the final 5-10 minutes.
How much chili powder is used in total?
The recipe calls for a total of 8 tablespoons of chili powder, divided throughout the cooking process.
Can I use Sazon Goya in this recipe?
Yes, one optional 1/4 ounce packet of Sazon Goya can be added for additional flavor and color.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
There are 20 grams of protein per serving in this Texas chili.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 7.5 grams of carbohydrates.
Is this chili spicy?
Yes, the recipe uses cayenne pepper and significant amounts of chili powder, though the heat can be adjusted to taste.
Why use onion flakes instead of fresh onions?
Onion flakes are used to provide a consistent base flavor without altering the smooth texture of the chili gravy.
How much garlic powder is needed?
The recipe uses a total of 1 tablespoon plus 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for deep flavor.
What role does cumin play in this dish?
Cumin is added to provide warmth and that quintessential earthy aroma characteristic of Texas chili.
What should I do if the chili is too thin?
You can check the consistency after the first hour of simmering; if it is too thin, you can continue simmering uncovered or add more broth if it's too thick.
Is this recipe suitable for a chili cook-off?
Absolutely, the 'dump' method and lack of beans make this a classic competition-style Texas chili.
How long is the total simmer time?
The total simmer time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to ensure tender meat and melded flavors.
Can I use low-sodium broth?
Yes, the recipe specifically recommends low-sodium beef and chicken broths to better control the salt levels.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
While most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, always check your bouillon cubes and Sazon Goya packets for potential gluten additives.