Texas Chili(Bowl Of Red)
A hearty Texas chili with tender beef, smoky cumin, and bold spices, perfect for satisfying gatherings and fans of robust, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slightly toast cumin seed in a skillet (preferably cast-iron) and crush slightly.
- If using ground cumin, skip this step.
- Saute onions and garlic in about 1/4 cup vegetable oil until transparent.
- Remove the onions and garlic from the skillet.
- In the same skillet, saute the beef in a little more oil until evenly gray all over.
- Add enough water to cover the meat, then add the toasted cumin or ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes.
- Add salt to taste and continue simmering for another 45 minutes.
- Thicken the chili by stirring in a paste made from lightly browned flour or cracker meal mixed with water, ensuring not to overbrown to avoid bitterness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef cuts, such as chuck and brisket. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. You can substitute ground cumin with toasted coriander for a different flavor profile. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as it simmers to achieve your preferred taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Chili in bowls topped with diced onions, shredded cheese, or sour cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. For an American recipes twist, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Chili(Bowl Of Red) contains roughly 476 calories, with 25g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (299% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (144% of the Daily Value), and iron (138% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2310mg per serving (100% 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 chili?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. However, ensure that you adjust the cooking time, as ground meats cook faster than cubed beef. For a vegetarian version, use beans and additional vegetables to maintain a hearty texture.
What can I do if my chili is too spicy?
If the chili turns out too spicy, you can add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to each serving to cool it down. Alternatively, add more diced tomatoes or beans to dilute the heat, or serve it with a side of cornbread to balance the flavors.
How can I thicken my chili if it's too watery?
To thicken your chili, stir in a mixture of cornstarch and water or a roux made from flour and fat. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also let it cook uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
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).