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Authentic Texas Chili

A hearty and flavorful dish, authentic Texas chili features tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich chiles, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 lbs Chuck Roast Cut into 1-inch cubes or coarsely ground.
  • 1/4 cup Chili Powder (Authentic Texas Style) Look for Texas Style or Southwest Style blends.
  • 3-5 pieces Dried Ancho Chiles Rehydrate and puree before use.
  • 2-3 pieces Dried Guajillo Chiles (Optional) Rehydrate and puree before adding.
  • 1 large White Onion Diced.
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic Minced or pressed.
  • 2 tbsp Ground Cumin Use good quality for best results.
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano (Mexican Oregano preferred) Adds authenticity.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Look for quality smoked paprika.
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust heat level to taste.
  • 1 (12 oz) Can Diced Tomatoes (Optional) Adds sweetness and acidity.
  • 4 cups Beef Broth Liquid base for the chili.
  • 1 cup Strong Brewed Coffee (Optional) Adds depth without coffee flavor.
  • to taste Salt and Black Pepper For seasoning.
  • as needed Vegetable Oil or Beef Tallow For browning beef and sautéing aromatics.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rehydrate and puree the dried chiles by removing stems and seeds, soaking in hot water until softened, and blending into a puree.
  2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat and brown the cubed chuck roast on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté until softened. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until fragrant.
  4. Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the chiles, broth, and diced tomatoes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for at least one hour.
  5. Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a richer flavor, stir in the strong brewed coffee.
  6. Serve hot, preferably with cornbread or tortilla chips.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh spices and herbs. Don’t rush the simmering process. Adjust heat to your liking with cayenne pepper. For extra depth, consider using a mix of beef broth and beer.