Korean Chile Con Carne

Blow your tastebuds away with this spicy Korean Chile Con Carne, fortified with FOUR layers of heat, savory tomatoes, and tender beef. This simple recipe has complex flavors, based on the traditional Texas-style meat chili. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Complex Flavors: Enjoy a unique blend of spicy and savory ingredients that create a rich and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this delicious dish.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or as a filling for tacos; the possibilities are endless!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for family dinners or parties, this recipe serves 10-12 people.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more or less gochugaru to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the right tools. Having essential equipment allows you to prepare Korean Chile Con Carne efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking; it retains heat well and allows for even cooking of the beef.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons beef tallow, or neutral oil
– 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 cubes
– kosher salt
– fresh ground black pepper
– 1 red onion, finely diced
– 2 jalapeños, finely diced
– 3 garlic cloves, finely diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely diced
– 2 teaspoons adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
– 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon smoked salt
– 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
– 1 cup dark beef broth
– 5 tablespoons gochujang
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Use a Dutch oven or deep pot.
2. Heat the fat over high heat.
3. Lightly season the meat with salt and pepper.
4. Sear the meat all over until browned; you may need to do this in batches.
5. Transfer the meat to a plate lined with a paper towel once browned.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Reduce heat to medium.
2. When the oil is hot, add in the diced jalapeños and red onion.
3. Stir frequently to char on all sides for about 2 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar.
5. Continue to stir frequently to incorporate all spices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Whisk together gochujang and beef broth until fully incorporated.
2. Add this mixture into the pot along with beef broth and fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices).
3. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Return seared meat to the pot; bring everything to a simmer for about 2–3 hours until tender.
5. Cover while cooking if you prefer a thinner consistency; simmer uncovered for a thicker texture.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

1. If desired, add gochugaru (chile flakes) during cooking for an extra kick.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in chopped cilantro at the end for freshness.
2. Serve with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced onions for added flavor!

Enjoy your flavorful Korean Chile Con Carne!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a flavorful and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The perfect base to soak up the rich sauce and flavors of the chili.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a hint of sweetness and creaminess that complements the heat well.

Toppings

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightens the dish.
• Diced Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A cooling element that balances the spiciness of the chili.

In a Bowl

• Chili Bowls: Serve it in deep bowls with toppings layered on top for a beautiful presentation.
• Chili Nachos: Spoon the chili over tortilla chips, top with cheese, and bake until melted for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To make your Korean Chile Con Carne even better, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Meat: Selecting high-quality beef chuck will ensure tender bites full of flavor.
• Sear Properly: Browning the meat well enhances the taste through caramelization, adding depth to your chili.
• Adjust Heat Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of gochugaru or jalapeños for your desired spice level.
• Simmer Low and Slow: Allowing enough simmering time helps develop complex flavors while tenderizing the meat.
• Balance Flavors: Taste as you go; adjust sweetness or saltiness with brown sugar or additional seasoning as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: A sweet, buttery bread that complements the spicy chili perfectly.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Offers a refreshing crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring added texture and nutrition.
4. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crispness and contrasts nicely with the warm chili.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides a rich texture that pairs well with spicy flavors.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with butter can be an excellent base for spooning over chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chile Con Carne, a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Failing to sear the meat can lead to less depth of flavor. Always brown the meat well to enhance the overall taste.
• Ignoring Spice Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the spices can result in a bland dish. Start with smaller amounts of spicy ingredients and increase based on your heat preference.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar tomatoes or broth will diminish your chili’s flavor. Opt for high-quality, fire-roasted tomatoes and rich beef broth for the best results.
• Overcooking or Undercooking Meat: Cooking for too long or not enough affects tenderness. Aim for a simmer time of 2-3 hours, checking periodically for doneness.
• Forgetting Toppings: Skipping toppings can make your chili less exciting. Enhance flavors with fresh cilantro, cheese, or diced green onions just before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean Chile Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean Chile Con Carne that you might find helpful.

What is Korean Chile Con Carne?

Korean Chile Con Carne is a spicy twist on traditional chili, combining rich flavors from beef and Korean spices like gochujang.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken for beef for a lighter version while keeping the same bold flavors.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level varies based on how much gochujang and jalapeños you use. Start with less if you prefer mild heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful blend of spicy and savory that will appeal to any palate. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether served over rice or enjoyed as is, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!