Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili is a warm and satisfying dish that combines rich flavors and a delightful kick of spice. This chili recipe showcases the best of Tex-Mex cuisine, making it perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or just a night in. Its vibrant ingredients and hearty texture will surely leave you and your loved ones wanting more.
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The appeal of this Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili goes beyond just a delicious taste. It is easy to prepare with simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Whether you prefer mild or fiery heat, you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. This chili is also a one-pot meal, allowing for easy cleanup while delivering a rich array of nutrients from beans and vegetables. Perfect for meal prep, it freezes well for hectic days when you still crave something hearty and wholesome.
How to Make Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the spices to become fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir to combine everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the chili seems too thick, add additional beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice to add freshness to the chili.
- Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or tortilla chips.
How to Serve Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
Serving Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili is a delightful experience. Ladle the chili into bowls and top it with shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, slices of avocado, or crispy tortilla chips. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget a lime wedge for an extra zesty kick. This dish is perfect for game days or cozy family evenings, providing comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
How to Store Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
To store Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chili. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, labeling them with dates for easy tracking. The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili Perfect
- Adjust the Spiciness: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper to customize the heat level. You can also add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Let It Simmer Longer: For deeper flavors, allow the chili to simmer for longer than 30 minutes. The longer it cooks, the more the ingredients meld together.
- Use Quality Meat: Select good-quality ground beef for the best flavor. Lean beef is a healthier option, but a bit of fat can add richness.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by including diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the chili.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your chili with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal experience.
Flavor Variations
Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili can be modified to suit your taste preferences. Consider these variations:
- Turkey Chili: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. The flavors will still be robust and satisfying.
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace meat with diced vegetables, mushrooms, or plant-based protein options. Increase the number of beans for added protein.
- Spicy Salsa: Add your favorite salsa in place of diced tomatoes for an extra kick and complexity in flavor.
- Sweet Corn: Incorporate a can of sweet corn for a touch of sweetness and added texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and gather your spices ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
- Don’t Skip the Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor right before serving. Don’t skip this step.
- Taste as You Go: Take the time to taste your chili during cooking. This helps adjust flavors and seasonings before it’s served.
FAQs About Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
Can I make this chili spicy without using cayenne pepper?
Yes, you can increase the heat by using hotter chili powders, adding jalapeños, or even incorporating hot sauce to achieve your desired level of spiciness.
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned beans?
Absolutely! Using fresh beans is an option, but they need to be soaked and cooked before being added to the recipe. This can take additional time and planning.
What are some good toppings for chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to get creative with your favorite condiments!
Final Thoughts
Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili is a remarkable recipe that brings warmth and excitement to the dinner table. It is adaptable, easy to prepare, and made with ingredients that you likely have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply want a comforting meal for the family, this chili is sure to please everyone. So, gather your ingredients and make this hearty dish today!
Hearty Spicy Tex-Mex Beef Chili
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to allow the spices to become fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, beef broth, and brown sugar. Stir to combine everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the chili seems too thick, add additional beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice to add freshness to the chili.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, slices of avocado, or crispy tortilla chips.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal. Don’t forget a lime wedge for an extra zesty kick.