Korean Chile Con Carne

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with a satisfying kick, you’ve come to the right place! This Korean Chile Con Carne is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a delightful fusion that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining friends on the weekend. With layers of spice and savory beef, it’s sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or let it simmer slowly for a comforting weekend meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so everyone can enjoy their own twist on this wonderful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The combination of gochujang, smoked salt, and chipotle gives this chili depth and warmth that will leave you wanting more.
• Ease of Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is friendly for cooks of all levels. You’ll find it easy to follow along!
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves 10-12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or game nights.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it whenever you’re ready to dig in.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more or less gochugaru according to your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Korean Chile Con Carne is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a hearty dish that everyone will love.

For the Chili

• 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 (or preferred dark beer alternative)
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

Variations

This Korean Chile Con Carne recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with lentils and use vegetable broth instead.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika or cayenne if you want to mix things up.

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by using a Dutch oven or deep pot over high heat. Add your chosen fat and let it get hot. Lightly season the cubed beef with kosher salt and fresh black pepper before searing them until they’re browned all over. This caramelization adds incredible flavor! Remember to do this in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pot will steam rather than sear the meat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once your meat is beautifully browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add in the diced jalapeños and red onion first. Stir them around until they get nice char marks—about two minutes should do! Then toss in minced garlic, chopped chipotles, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Stir frequently to blend those spices well; trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Combine It All

In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into your pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (juices included!) and additional beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious bits stuck at the bottom—those are packed with flavor! Add back in your seared meat and let everything simmer gently for about 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.

Step 4: Adjust Heat (Optional)

If you’re feeling adventurous and crave more heat, sprinkle in some gochugaru while it’s cooking! This step is optional but recommended for spice lovers who want an extra kick.

Step 5: Finish It Off

Before serving, stir in freshly chopped cilantro for brightness. I recommend enjoying your Korean Chile Con Carne over white rice with toppings like cheddar cheese and chopped onions for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite!

This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart—perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Chile Con Carne

Cooking this Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can make it even better!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using beef chuck roast ensures tender, flavorful meat after long cooking. It breaks down beautifully and gives your chili that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Don’t skip the searing: Searing the meat enhances its flavor through caramelization. This step adds depth to your chili and makes each bite more satisfying.

• Adjust the heat to taste: If you love spice, feel free to add more gochugaru or jalapeños. You can always start with less and add more as it cooks, ensuring it’s just right for you!

• Let it simmer low and slow: Giving your chili ample time to cook allows all those amazing flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste will be.

• Rest before serving: Allowing the chili to rest for about 15-20 minutes after cooking lets the flavors develop even further. Plus, it’s easier to serve!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Presenting your Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate your meal from delicious to truly outstanding! Here are some ideas on how to serve this hearty dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: This fresh herb adds a burst of brightness and balances the spiciness with its refreshing flavor.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of either adds creaminess that complements the heat and makes each bite luxurious.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over your chili introduces a zesty tang that enhances all the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• White rice: A classic pairing that soaks up all those delicious juices while providing a neutral base to balance the spicy chili.
• Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy cornbread complements the heat perfectly while adding a comforting texture that everyone will love.
• Pickled vegetables: A tangy side like pickled radishes or cucumbers can cut through the richness of the chili, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These veggies not only add color to your plate but also provide a nutritious contrast that works wonderfully with the hearty chili.

Enjoy making this Korean Chile Con Carne and don’t forget to share it with family and friends! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or just a night in. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Chile Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool to room temperature.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne unique?

Korean Chile Con Carne stands out due to its blend of traditional Texan chili flavors with Korean ingredients like gochujang and gochugaru that add depth and complexity.

Can I adjust the spiciness of my Korean Chile Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can modify how spicy it is by adjusting the amount of jalapeños and gochugaru used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and add more as desired.

What toppings go well with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, diced green onions, fresh cilantro, or even a dollop of sour cream for a cooling contrast.

Is Korean Chile Con Carne suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge or freezer and tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this flavorful Korean Chile Con Carne! It’s not just a dish; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings together so many rich flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it during a cozy weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends at a gathering, I believe you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!