Savory Cajun Chili with Roux
Experience a robust and flavorful Cajun Chili that showcases a rich roux base, giving it a unique body and creamy texture. This delightful dish can be made with or without beans, offering versatile serving options. For a hearty chili-mac variation, serve it over elbow noodles, and don't forget to top with a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese. Infused with the warm spices of chili powder and cumin, this dish is sure to please a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Elevate your chili experience with optional garnishes of fresh green onions for an added crunch and brightness!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
2 lbs (quality, preferably 80/20)
vegetable oil
4 tablespoons (can substitute with bacon drippings)
flour
2 tablespoons (heaping)
onion
1 large (chopped)
green bell pepper
1/2 medium (chopped)
garlic cloves
4 (minced)
tomato paste
1 (6 ounce) can (plain)
chili powder
2 tablespoons (plain)
cumin powder
2 tablespoons (plain)
sugar
1 - 2 tablespoons (to taste)
salt
to taste (plain)
cayenne pepper
to taste (plain)
water
1 - 2 cups (as needed for desired consistency)
red kidney beans
16 ounces (optional, drained and rinsed)
green onion
to taste (sliced, optional for garnish)
cheddar cheese
to taste (grated, optional for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by making a brown roux: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the heaping flour. Continue to stir constantly for about 10 minutes, until the mixture is a rich brown color and smells toasted, being careful not to burn it.
2
Once the roux is ready, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin powder, and sugar. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Pour in 1 to 2 cups of water, adjusting based on your preferred chili consistency. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5
Bring the chili to a simmer and cover it halfway. Let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally and checking the level of liquid to prevent burning. Add more water if needed.
6
If using, stir in the drained red kidney beans during the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking time to heat them through.
7
Serve the chili hot, garnished with grated cheddar cheese and freshly sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cajun Chili with Roux?
It is a robust and flavorful chili that uses a rich brown roux base to create a unique body and creamy texture.
What distinguishes this chili from traditional versions?
The use of a traditional Cajun roux made from oil and flour sets this chili apart, giving it a distinct depth of flavor and consistency.
How long does it take to make the roux for this recipe?
It takes approximately 10 minutes of constant stirring over medium heat until the mixture is a rich brown color and smells toasted.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil in the roux?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with bacon drippings for added flavor when making the roux.
What type of ground beef is recommended?
The recipe recommends using 2 lbs of quality ground beef, preferably an 80/20 blend.
Do I have to include beans in this chili?
No, the beans are optional and the recipe can be prepared without them according to your preference.
What is the 'chili-mac' variation?
The chili-mac variation involves serving the Cajun chili over a bed of elbow noodles and topping it with shredded cheddar cheese.
Which garnishes are suggested for this dish?
Suggested garnishes include grated cheddar cheese and freshly sliced green onions for added crunch and flavor.
How many garlic cloves are used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves.
What spices provide the main flavor profile?
The primary spices used are chili powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper.
Is there sugar in this chili recipe?
Yes, 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar are added to taste to balance the flavors.
How much liquid should I add to the chili?
You should add 1 to 2 cups of water, adjusting the amount based on your preferred chili consistency.
What type of beans should I use if I want beans?
The recipe specifically recommends using 16 ounces of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed.
How long does the chili need to simmer?
The chili should simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes while covered halfway.
What vegetables are included in the base?
The vegetable base consists of one large chopped onion, half a medium green bell pepper, and minced garlic.
How much flour is needed for the roux?
The recipe calls for 2 heaping tablespoons of flour.
When should I add the beans during cooking?
If you are using beans, add them during the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking time to heat them through.
How much tomato paste is required?
You will need one 6-ounce can of plain tomato paste.
Can I make this chili spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper to taste.
What is the key to a successful roux?
The key is constant whisking over medium heat to prevent the flour from burning while it browns.
How much cumin is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of plain cumin powder.
How much chili powder is used?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of plain chili powder.
Is this a good recipe for large gatherings?
Yes, its hearty nature and versatile serving options make it an excellent choice for pleasing a crowd.
Should the pot be covered while simmering?
Yes, it is recommended to cover the pot halfway during the 20 to 25 minute simmer.
How do I prevent the chili from burning during the simmer?
Stir occasionally and check the liquid levels, adding more water if the mixture becomes too thick.
What is the preparation for the green bell pepper?
You should use 1/2 of a medium green bell pepper, chopped.
What color should the roux be before adding vegetables?
The roux should be a rich brown color, similar to the color of chocolate or a dark copper.
What is the purpose of adding water to the recipe?
Water is added to create the sauce and allow the ingredients to simmer together while adjusting the thickness to your liking.
Can I use freshly sliced green onions as a garnish?
Yes, freshly sliced green onions are recommended as an optional garnish for brightness and crunch.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While the exact serving count isn't specified, with 2 lbs of beef and other ingredients, it is designed to feed a family or a small crowd.