This Texas-style chili is hearty and packed with flavor, featuring tender meat and a spicy kick. No beans here—just pure chili goodness!
When I make this chili, the smell alone makes everyone hungry! Perfect for game days or cozy nights in. Don’t forget to serve it with some cornbread! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of ground beef and pork. It adds a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer a lean option, ground turkey works too, but it may lack some richness.
Chili Powder: I recommend using ancho chili powder for that classic Texas flavor. If it’s unavailable, any good quality chili powder will do. Just keep in mind that some blends might be spicier.
Beef Broth: Home-made is best, but store-bought works just fine. If you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian, vegetable broth is a good substitute – just know that the flavor will change slightly.
Toppings: I love topping mine with shredded white cheddar. You can also try mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. Fresh cilantro brings a wonderful freshness to the dish, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chili Is Flavorful?
The secret to hearty flavor lies in the spices and the cooking technique. Start by browning the meat well; this browning is crucial as it gives a robust, deep flavor.
- Toast spices: After browning the meat and cooking the onions, add your spices (chili powder, cumin, etc.) and let them cook for a minute. This enhances their aroma and taste.
- Simmering: Let your chili simmer uncovered—it allows the flavors to concentrate! Stir occasionally and keep an eye on the thickness; you can always add a bit of water or broth.
Taste it at the end and don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings; sometimes, a little extra salt or vinegar can make a big difference!
Authentic Texas Style Chili Recipe No Beans
Ingredients:
- For the Chili:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork for richer flavor)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp chili powder (preferably ancho or a good quality chili powder)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth or stock
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (for tang)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for depth)
- For Topping:
- Shredded white cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and 1 hour to cook. So, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a fantastic way to spend a cozy afternoon!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, around 7-10 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, drain some of it off to keep the chili from being too greasy.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sautĂ© for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. This step adds wonderful flavor!
3. Toast the Spices:
Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps to release the essential oils in the spices, making them even more flavorful.
4. Add Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste, mixing it well with the meat and spices. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. This will enhance the tomato flavor in your chili.
5. Combine Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any tasty browned bits.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally and feel free to add a little water or extra broth if it gets too thick. This is where all those delicious flavors meld together!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasonings if needed. Add more salt, spice, or vinegar to suit your preference
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. It’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends!
Enjoy your authentic Texas-style chili! It’s rich, meaty, and boldly flavored—all without a bean in sight! 🌶️
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it may lead to a slightly less rich flavor, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning to compensate.
What if I Want to Make This Chili Mild?
If you’d prefer a milder chili, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and choose a mild chili powder. You can always add heat later with hot sauce if desired!
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Definitely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just prepare it and let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
How to Thicken the Chili If It’s Too Thin?
If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow more liquid to evaporate. You can also mash some of the beans or stir in a little cornmeal for extra thickness!
