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 gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish brings an exciting twist to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates a unique depth of flavor that is both spicy and smoky.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious chili without any hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice or enjoy it as a standalone meal. It’s perfect for any occasion!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers or freezing for future meals.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more or less gochugaru according to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Korean Chile Con Carne, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Essential for slow cooking, ensuring even heat distribution to tenderize the meat perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while scraping up those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, which is crucial for efficient meal prep.

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Korean Chile Con Carne:

• 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

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

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together gochujang and beef broth until fully combined. Add this mixture into the pot along with beef broth and fire-roasted tomatoes with juices. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits on the bottom of the pot. Return seared meat to the pot and bring everything to a simmer for about 2–3 hours until tender. Cover while cooking if you prefer a thinner consistency; simmer uncovered for thicker chili.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

If you desire extra heat, stir in gochugaru (chile flakes) during cooking.

Step 5: Serve

Stir in chopped cilantro at the end. I recommend serving with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced white or green onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or with various accompaniments, this chili is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

With Rice

• Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy white rice for a comforting meal. The rice soaks up the flavors perfectly.

Topped with Cheese

• Add shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy contrast to the spicy chili. The melted cheese enhances each bite.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top before serving. This adds freshness and color to your dish.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to make delicious tacos filled with chili, fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings. A fun twist for taco night!

As a Dip

• Serve the chili as a dip alongside tortilla chips. It’s perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

Achieving the ultimate flavor in your Korean Chile Con Carne requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Sear the meat well: Browning the beef enhances its flavor and adds depth to the chili.
• Balance heat levels: Adjust the amount of gochujang and gochugaru according to your spice preference.
• Use quality broth: Opt for a rich beef broth for better flavor; homemade broth can be even more delicious.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer lets all the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
• Taste as you go: Always check seasoning throughout cooking; adjust salt and spice levels if necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread
   A sweet, crumbly cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili and provides a delightful texture contrast.

2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the heat from the chili with its cool creaminess.

3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole offers a rich texture that contrasts nicely with the bold flavors of the chili.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and earthiness, pairing well with savory chili notes.

5. Pickled Vegetables
   Tangy pickled veggies add brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish effectively.

6. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a hearty base for spooning over hot chili, making every bite satisfying.

7. Tortilla Chips
   Crispy tortilla chips serve as an excellent crunchy side that can also be enjoyed as dippers for the chili itself.

8. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, providing a healthy balance to your meal without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Korean Chile Con Carne experience. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the salt and pepper during the meat searing can lead to bland flavors. Always season your meat adequately before cooking.
• Bold neglecting the simmer: Not allowing the chili to simmer for enough time will result in tough meat. Patience is key; let it cook for 2-3 hours for tender results.
• Bold improper ingredient preparation: Failing to finely dice vegetables can affect texture and flavor distribution. Make sure to chop ingredients as directed for even cooking.
• Bold ignoring heat levels: Overlooking the spice levels from gochujang and jalapeños may lead to an unbalanced dish. Adjust these according to your heat preference.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Serving without toppings like cilantro or green onions can make your dish less appealing. Add garnishes for freshness and flavor enhancement.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty plastic bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat chili in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed 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 Texas-style chili, combining tender beef with bold Korean flavors.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying the rich flavors.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To lower the spice level, reduce the amount of gochujang and jalapeños. For more heat, add additional gochugaru or fresh chiles.

What sides pair well with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute beef with plant-based protein options and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a flavorful dish that combines comforting warmth with exciting spices. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether serving it over rice or enjoying it as a hearty stew, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends. Get creative with toppings and enjoy!