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 dish delights at gatherings or cozy nights in. Its unique blend of Korean flavors melds perfectly with traditional chili elements, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates an explosive flavor profile that is both spicy and savory.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this hearty meal without fussing over complicated techniques.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves 10 to 12 people, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or with your favorite toppings like cheese and onions.
• Comfort Food Redefined: This Korean Chile Con Carne is perfect for warming you up on chilly nights.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow cooking, allowing flavors to develop while keeping the meat tender.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while scraping up flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.

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)

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Use a Dutch oven or deep pot. Heat the fat over high heat. Lightly season the meat with salt and pepper.
* Sear the meat all over until browned. You may need to do this in batches.
* Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

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 them on all sides for about 2 minutes.
* Add minced garlic, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Stir frequently to incorporate all spices well.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk together the gochujang and beef broth until fully mixed.
* Add this mixture into the pot along with beer and fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices).
* Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.
* Return the seared meat back into the pot and bring everything to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer

Let it simmer for about 2–3 hours until the meat is tender.
* If you prefer a thinner consistency, cover with a lid while cooking; leave it uncovered for a thicker chili.

Step 5: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

Stir in gochugaru (Chile flakes) during cooking if you want extra heat.

Step 6: Finish Up

Stir in chopped cilantro at the end. Serve hot with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Serving Korean Chile Con Carne is an exciting way to impress your guests or enjoy a comforting meal at home. With its rich flavors and spicy kick, this dish pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its taste.

With Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the chili’s heat and balances the flavors.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Adds a fresh twist with a hint of citrus that complements the dish beautifully.

Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: Melted on top, it adds creaminess and richness to each bite.
• Diced Onions: Fresh white or green onions provide a crunchy texture and sharp flavor contrast.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can help tone down the heat while adding richness.

With Bread

• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread is perfect for scooping up the chili.
• Crusty Bread: A hearty bread adds texture and can be used to soak up every last drop of sauce.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Korean Chile Con Carne, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Start with good-quality beef chuck roast for tender, flavorful chunks.
• Sear the Meat Properly: Browning the meat enhances depth of flavor; don’t skip this step!
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of gochujang or gochugaru based on your heat preference.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the chili to simmer for longer makes the meat more tender and flavors meld better.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a custom flavor profile tailored to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the chili’s warmth.
2. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the chili, adding brightness.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with spicy dishes, enhancing their flavor.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the heat perfectly.
5. Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with cheese make for a fun, shareable side.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This dish adds a deliciously creamy and tangy element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes in your Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate the dish remarkably. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the meat properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Make sure to brown the meat well before adding other ingredients.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using inferior beef or canned tomatoes can affect the overall taste. Opt for high-quality cuts of beef and fire-roasted tomatoes for the best results.
• Ignoring the Spice Levels: Adding too little or too much spice can ruin your chili. Taste as you go, and adjust spice levels according to your preference.
• Not Simmering Long Enough: Rushing the cooking process won’t allow flavors to meld. Aim for at least 2 hours of simmering for tender meat and rich flavor.
• Overlooking Toppings: Neglecting toppings can make your dish less appealing. Consider garnishing with cilantro, cheese, or green onions for added texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• item Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• item Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Korean Chile Con Carne that might help you prepare this delicious dish.

What is Korean Chile Con Carne?

Korean Chile Con Carne is a spicy twist on traditional Texas-style chili, featuring tender beef and layers of unique flavors from Korean ingredients like gochujang.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spiciness level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with less gochugaru and add more as needed to find your ideal heat level.

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, you can use ground beef if you prefer a different texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize my Korean Chile Con Carne?

You can customize by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or adjusting spices like cumin and coriander according to your taste.

What should I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Serving suggestions include white rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Toppings like cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions enhance the experience.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort food to a new level. Its versatility allows for customization based on personal taste preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and impress your friends and family!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Spicy Korean Chile Con Carne

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 1x

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Description

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this Spicy Korean Chile Con Carne, a delightful fusion of traditional chili and Korean flavors. This hearty dish features tender beef simmered in a robust sauce made with gochujang and chipotle peppers, layered with savory tomatoes and spices. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, this recipe is designed to impress and satisfy. Serve it over rice or with your favorite toppings for an unforgettable meal that warms the soul and ignites the palate.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons beef tallow or neutral oil
• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cubed
• 1 red onion, diced
• 2 jalapeños, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, diced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 cup Negro Modelo or dark beer
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth

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Instructions

1. Heat fat in a Dutch oven over high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper; sear until browned on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
2. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add onions and jalapeños. Sauté until charred, about 2 minutes. Stir in garlic, chipotle peppers, cumin, brown sugar, and smoked salt.
3. Whisk together gochujang and beef broth; add to the pot along with beer and fire-roasted tomatoes. Return seared meat to the pot.
4. Bring to a simmer; cover partially. Cook for 2–3 hours until meat is tender.
5. For extra heat, stir in gochugaru towards the end of cooking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 85mg