Al'S Chile
Al'S Chile is a hearty, flavorful beef chili with rich spices and a smooth masa harina thickening, perfect for cozy gatherings and those who love bold Mexican-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 3 pounds of beef and brown on all sides.
- Add 4 minced garlic cloves, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and red pepper; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 quart of beef stock (using 5 bouillon cubes).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
- Dissolve 1/4 cup of masa harina in water and stir into the chili to thicken.
- Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of chuck and brisket for the beef. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable stock instead. Adjust the chili powder based on your heat preference, and feel free to add beans for extra texture. To enhance the dish, serve with fresh cilantro and lime.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Al'S Chile hot, garnished with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Mexican Corn Bread(Casserole) or tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Quick And Easy Taco Salad Pie or over rice for a hearty option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chili has thickened too much, add a splash of beef stock or water to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Al'S Chile contains roughly 1038 calories, with 41g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (165% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2161mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or turkey as alternatives to beef. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary, since different meats may require varying amounts of time to become tender. Ground meat can also be used, but you'll want to brown it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To increase the heat, add more red pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers during cooking. You can also try using a spicier chili powder or adding hot sauce to taste. Adjust gradually to ensure it doesn't become overwhelmingly spicy.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and sautéing the garlic and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the beef stock and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the masa harina mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).