Hearty Beef and Bean Chili Recipe: A Flavorful Comfort Food Classic
Warm up with this tender beef and bean chili made with aromatic spices and dried chilies. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings!
Servings 8
Ingredients
- Peppers:
- 4-6 Ancho peppers
- 4-6 Guajillo peppers
- 4-6 Chiles de arbol
- Beef:
- 4 pounds Beef chuck cut into cubes
- Aromatics:
- 2 large Onions 1/4 inch dice
- 8 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Jalapenos 1/8 dice seeds removed for less heat
- Spices:
- 2 tsp Cumin
- 2 tsp Coriander
- 2 tsp Oregano
- 2 Star anise
- 3 cloves
- 2 Bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- Liquids:
- 2 15- ounce cans Diced tomatoes
- 1 15- ounce can Tomato sauce
- 1 cup Beef stock
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- A dash of Worcestershire Sauce
- Beans:
- 2 15- ounce cans Kidney beans drained and rinsed
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the Ancho, Guajillo, and Chiles de arbol until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Soak in hot water until rehydrated, then blend into a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over high heat, sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, and jalapenos to the same pot. Sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add cumin, coriander, and oregano; cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add chili paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef stock. Stir in soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer: Add bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld.
- Add Beans: Add kidney beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm through.
- Season to Taste: Remove bay leaves, star anise, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve hot. Optional garnishes include sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions.
Notes
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: For a milder chili, reduce the number of Chiles de arbol or remove seeds.
- Substitute: Replace beef chuck with ground beef for a quicker version (reduce cook time to 1 hour).
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with extra beans and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
- Additions: A splash of dark beer can add extra depth to the flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Allergen Information
- Contains Soy: Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Contains Worcestershire Sauce: Some versions may contain anchovies; omit or use a vegan Worcestershire for a fish-free option.