Best Texas Chili Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 2 hours Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Recipe Intensity: Intermediate

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream, for garnish (optional)
• Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed beef chuck to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced jalapeño peppers. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the beef and vegetables with the spices.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the chili simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. If using kidney beans, add them to the chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
8. Taste the chili and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
9. Ladle the Texas chili into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions if desired.
10. Serve the Best Texas Chili hot with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Note: Texas chili is traditionally made without beans, but you can add them if you prefer. Adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper according to your taste. Enjoy the rich and bold flavors of this classic Texas dish!