Make Smoky Texas Chili. This recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for game day or the holidays. Its combination of smoked beef and rich spices creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, this chili stands out with its unique flavors and hearty ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The smoky beef and rich spices create a delightful taste that will impress your guests.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without stress, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or with toppings like shredded cheese and scallions for a personalized touch.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 16 servings, making it ideal for parties, tailgates, or family gatherings.
- Comfort Food: Enjoy a warm bowl of chili that evokes feelings of home and comfort.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Smoky Texas Chili, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Smoker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Perfect for even cooking and simmering the chili to develop rich flavors.
- Smoker: Infuses the beef with deep smoky flavor that elevates the overall dish.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat efficiently.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for evenly sized ingredients, improving texture and cooking time.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 4 lbs. Beef Chuck Roast, smoked, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
For the Vegetables & Spices
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup dark chili powder
- 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1 Tbsp. cumin
- 1 Tbsp. fine black pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 2 roasted poblanos, coarsely chopped
For the Base & Broth
- 1 qt. beef stock
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp. Mexican oregano
- 1 tsp. beef base
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
Optional Seasoning & Dumplings
- Optional: Kosher Salt to taste
For the Cheddar Jalapeño Dumplings
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- ½ tsp. salt
- ¼ cup honey or ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ -½ cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced
How to Make Smoky Texas Chili
Step 1: Prepare the Smoker
Add wood chunks, chips, pellets, or charcoal to the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat to 250°F.
Step 2: Smoke the Chuck Roast
Season trimmed Chuck Roast generously with salt and pepper. Place Chuck Roast on rack in smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Set timer for 8 hours.
Step 3: Wrap and Continue Smoking
After 4 hours, or when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 180°F, wrap with unwaxed butcher paper and place back on smoker.
Step 4: Final Smoking Phase
After another 4 hours, or when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 208-210°F, remove roast from smoker.
Step 5: Resting Period
Let rest in butcher paper for at least 1 hour. Slice the roast into cubes right before adding it to the chili.
Step 6: Sauté Vegetables
In a dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over MEDIUM-HIGH heat. Add chopped onion and sprinkle with salt if desired. Sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Add red peppers and sauté for another 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add Spices
Add chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and garlic powder while stirring frequently for about a minute—allowing spices to bloom without burning.
Step 8: Combine Ingredients
Add cubed smoked Chuck Roast and poblano peppers to the pot. Stir in beef stock and crushed tomatoes to deglaze the bottom of the pot.
Step 9: Add Herbs & Seasonings
Mix in oregano, beef base, Worcestershire sauce into the pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Simmer The Chili
Bring chili to a boil then reduce heat to LOW and cover—simmer for about 40 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 11: Prepare Dumpling Mixture
While chili cooks, mix together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl for cheddar jalapeño dumplings.
Step 12: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add eggs folding gently until combined; then stir buttermilk into mixture until fully combined.
Step 13: Fold In Cheese & Jalapeños
Gently fold in cheese and diced jalapeños—avoid overmixing batter!
Step 14: Cook The Dumplings
Place dollops (about 1-2 oz.) of dumpling batter into simmering chili; continue cooking covered for about another 20 minutes until dumplings are firm but fluffy.
Step 15: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve chili in bowls garnished with shredded cheese, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and a dollop of sour cream as desired!
How to Serve Smoky Texas Chili
Serving Smoky Texas Chili is a delightful experience, as it pairs well with various toppings and side dishes. You can customize each bowl to suit individual preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Suggested Toppings
- Shredded Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for creamy richness.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream cools the heat and adds a smooth texture.
- Chopped Scallions: Fresh scallions bring a crunchy bite and bright flavor to the dish.
- Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro enhances the chili with herbal notes, balancing the smoky flavors.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add richness and healthy fats, perfect for topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the delicious chili.
- Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoying on their own.
- Rice: A bowl of fluffy rice can be served alongside or under the chili for added heartiness.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love spice, pickled jalapeños can add an extra kick to each bowl.
How to Perfect Smoky Texas Chili
To achieve the best results with your Smoky Texas Chili, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Use High-Quality Beef: Selecting a good cut like beef chuck roast ensures tenderness and rich flavor.
- Don’t Rush Smoking: Allowing sufficient time while smoking enhances the depth of flavor; patience pays off!
- Balance Your Spices: Adjust spices based on your taste preference, ensuring a balanced profile without overpowering heat.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit after cooking helps flavors meld together for an even better taste when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Smoky Texas Chili
Pairing side dishes with Smoky Texas Chili elevates your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty dish beautifully.
- Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread is perfect for mopping up chili and adds a comforting element.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the chili with its tangy dressing.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with chili, adding another layer of flavor and richness.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a satisfying base topped with chili and cheese.
- Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies complement the flavors in chili while adding nutrition and color to your meal.
- Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a unique twist that contrasts nicely with spicy chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Smoky Texas Chili, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust the spices throughout the cooking process.
- Bold overcooking beef: Overcooking the beef can make it tough. Monitor the cooking time and ensure you remove it from heat when tender.
- Bold ignoring simmer time: Not allowing enough simmering time can prevent flavors from developing. Be patient; let it simmer for at least 40 minutes.
- Bold dumping ingredients: Adding all ingredients at once might not allow flavors to meld. Sauté the vegetables first to enhance their flavor before adding them to the pot.
- Bold forgetting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can dull your presentation. Top your chili with cheese, scallions, or cilantro for added flavor and appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
- Let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Smoky Texas Chili
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating Smoky Texas Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Smoky Texas Chili:
What makes Smoky Texas Chili unique?
Smoky Texas Chili stands out due to its rich flavors from smoked beef chuck roast and a blend of spices that create a deep, savory taste.
Can I make Smoky Texas Chili ahead of time?
Yes! Making chili a day ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with Smoky Texas Chili?
You can pair it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal that complements the rich flavors of the chili.
How do I customize my Smoky Texas Chili?
Feel free to add different beans, such as black or kidney beans, or extra veggies like corn or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Smoky Texas Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. With its savory depth and satisfying texture, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Smoky Texas Chili
Indulge in the bold and savory flavors of Smoky Texas Chili, a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. This easy-to-make chili features tender smoked beef chuck roast, perfectly balanced spices, and a rich tomato base that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for game day or cozy family dinners, this hearty chili serves 16 and is customizable with various toppings like shredded cheese and fresh scallions. With its robust flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 lbs. beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
- ¼ cup dark chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon fine black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 roasted poblanos, coarsely chopped
- 1 quart beef stock
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon beef base
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt to taste
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup honey or ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¼ –½ cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced
Instructions
- Preheat smoker to 250°F and smoke the seasoned beef chuck roast for 8 hours.
- In a Dutch oven, sauté diced onion and red bell pepper in vegetable oil until translucent.
- Stir in spices and sauté briefly before adding smoked beef cubes, poblano peppers, stock, and tomatoes.
- Simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- While simmering, prepare cheddar jalapeño dumpling batter and drop dollops into the chili; cook covered for an additional 20 minutes until fluffy.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Smoking/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Texan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: For added depth of flavor, let the chili rest for a few hours or overnight before serving. Customize by adding black beans or corn for extra texture. Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
