Spicy Bliss in a Bowl (Korean Chile Con Carne)

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a culinary adventure that marries the bold, smoky flavors of Korean cuisine with the comforting hearty goodness of Texas-style chili! Our Korean Chile Con Carne is a vibrant, spicy creation that swirls savory beef, aromatic vegetables, and a symphony of spices into a rich, mouthwatering dish. With every bite, you’ll experience layers of deep, complex flavors that dance across your palate, making it the perfect hearty meal for cozy nights or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang, chipotle, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish serves up to 12, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
– Flexible & Fast: While it simmers for a couple of hours, the prep is quick, and you can easily adjust the spice to suit your taste.
– Make-Ahead Magic: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients and get ready for a flavor-packed adventure! This recipe features some key players that really take the dish to the next level. The gochujang adds a beautiful depth of flavor, while the fire-roasted tomatoes introduce a smoky sweetness that is simply irresistible.

Main 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 Negro Modelo (or preferred dark beer)
– 5 tablespoons gochujang
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

The beauty of Korean Chile Con Carne lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize it to match your preferences:

– Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free beer and check that your broth and gochujang are gluten-free.
– Add Extra Protein: Swap in ground beef or turkey, or even add beans for a plant-based alternative.
– Make it Spicier: For a fiery kick, toss in more gochugaru or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different types of hot sauces or salsas for unique flavor profiles.
– Cheese it Up: Top with your favorite cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a creamy finish.

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Let’s dive into the cooking process! Follow these steps to whip up a pot of heavenly chili.

Step 1: Sear the Beef

In a Dutch oven or deep pot, heat the beef tallow over high heat. While it’s heating, season the beef cubes with kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the meat in batches, searing until golden brown on all sides. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Turn the heat down to medium, and add the diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot. Stir frequently to char them for about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked salt, and dark brown sugar. Stir well to incorporate those fragrant spices!

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gochujang and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot along with the dark beer and fire-roasted tomatoes, stirring to scrape up those delicious browned bits from the bottom. Add the seared beef back into the pot, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 2-3 hours, adjusting the lid for desired thickness.

Step 4: Spice It Up

(Optional) If you’re looking for an extra layer of heat, stir in the gochugaru during the last hour of cooking.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the meat is tender and flavors are melded, stir in freshly chopped cilantro just before serving. I highly recommend enjoying your Korean Chile Con Carne over fluffy white rice and topped with diced onions and a sprinkle of cheese.

Pro Tips for Making Korean Chile Con Carne

Here are a few pro tips to help you create the ultimate chili:

– Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal for this dish due to its rich marbling, which becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking.
– Don’t Rush the Searing: Take your time to get a good sear on the beef; it adds depth of flavor.
– Taste as You Go: Adjust the spices and salt throughout the cooking process to achieve your perfect flavor balance.
– Let It Sit: If you can, let the chili rest for a while before serving; the flavors deepen beautifully!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Garnishes

Elevate your dish with some vibrant garnishes! Try fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair your Korean Chile Con Carne with sides like fluffy jasmine rice, cornbread, or even crispy tortilla chips for added crunch!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve in individual bowls topped with a colorful array of garnishes. Or, wow your guests by presenting it in a large communal pot, allowing everyone to dig in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors only get better with time!

Freezing

Feel free to freeze your chili for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed for moisture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even chicken can be used as alternatives.

Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a nice kick! You can adjust the spice levels by reducing the number of jalapeños or gochugaru.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free beer and double-check that your gochujang and beef broth are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This chili is perfect for meal prep. Just make it ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! A hearty, spicy Korean Chile Con Carne that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With its delightful complexity and comforting qualities, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. Enjoy every savory bite! 🍽️✨