Gochujang Chili Con Carne Recipe

I vividly recall the first chilly evening when I decided to spice up my usual chili recipe. I wanted something hearty, comforting, yet intriguingly different—and that’s when Gochujang Chili Con Carne entered my kitchen. The blend of classic chili ingredients with Korean flavors was an instant hit, not only with me but also with everyone who tried it. This dish quickly became my go-to recipe for gatherings and cozy dinners alike. If you’re new to cooking or just looking for an effortless yet impressive meal, this Korean Chile Con Carne recipe is the ideal starting point. It’s simple, flavorful, nutritious, and perfectly suited for beginners eager to explore new tastes.

Why This Recipe is Special

What sets this Gochujang Chili Con Carne apart is the unique incorporation of gochujang, a Korean fermented chili paste. This ingredient transforms traditional chili into an unforgettable meal, providing a deep, complex flavor that’s both spicy and slightly sweet. It’s easy to prepare, cooks mostly unattended, and packs significant nutritional benefits, making it ideal for those seeking quick, healthy meals.

Ingredients and Preparation

• Beef Chuck Roast: Adds richness, hearty texture, and savory flavor. Substitute with pork or chicken if preferred.
• Beef Tallow or Neutral Oil: Helps in achieving a perfect sear on the meat.
• Red Onion and Jalapeños: Add depth, sweetness, and heat.
• Garlic: Enhances aroma and depth.
• Chipotle Peppers and Adobo Sauce: Provide a smoky heat.
• Dark Brown Sugar: Balances heat with sweetness.
• Ground Cumin and Coriander: Classic chili spices adding earthiness and warmth.
• Smoked Salt: Enhances smokiness.
• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Offer tangy sweetness and subtle smoky flavor.
• Dark Beer: Deepens flavor and tenderizes the beef; substitute with coffee if alcohol-free.
• Gochujang: Essential for authentic Korean flavor, sweet-spicy taste.
• Beef Broth: Adds savory depth.
• Gochugaru (optional): Adds extra heat and vibrant red color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Transfer browned meat to a plate with paper towels to drain.

Step 2: Lower heat to medium. Add diced red onion and jalapeños to the same pot, sautéing until slightly charred, about 2 minutes. Add garlic, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar, stirring frequently until aromatic.

Step 3: Whisk together gochujang and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot, followed by the dark beer and fire-roasted tomatoes, stirring to scrape the browned bits from the bottom, which enhances flavor.

Step 4: Add the seared beef back into the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot for a thinner chili or leave it uncovered for a thicker consistency. Cook for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender enough to shred with a fork.

Step 5: For additional spice, stir in gochugaru. Serve warm, topped with garnishes like cilantro, cheddar cheese, scallions, sesame seeds, or a fried egg, accompanied by rice or tortillas.

Tips and Notes For Korean Chile Con Carne

If your chili tastes too spicy, balance it out with a teaspoon of honey or a splash of coconut milk. Should your chili thicken too much, simply add more beef broth or water. Efficient preparation involves pre-measuring spices and chopping vegetables ahead of time. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a heavy-bottomed pot or slow cooker also works well.

Serving Suggestions

This chili pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or warmed tortillas. For a refreshing contrast, consider a crisp green salad or creamy avocado slices. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Conclusion

Now, it’s your turn! Dive into making this easy sheet pan dinner version of a classic chili with a flavorful Korean twist. Gochujang Chili Con Carne is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, impressing friends, family, and especially your taste buds. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Korean Chile Con Carne

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