Korean Chile Con Carne

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul and excites your taste buds, look no further than this Korean Chile Con Carne. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, not just for its rich, layered flavors but also for the memories it creates around the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili brings everyone together with its vibrant heat and savory goodness.

What makes this Korean Chile Con Carne truly special is the blend of traditional Texas-style meat chili with bold Korean spices. Each bite is a delightful adventure, making it perfect for those who crave something a little different yet deliciously familiar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this flavorful dish simmering in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The balance of heat and flavor makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It tastes even better the next day, so feel free to whip up a big batch!
• Rich Flavor Profile: Combining classic chili ingredients with Korean spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, cheese, or fresh herbs to customize each serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Korean Chile Con Carne is a breeze! These simple and wholesome items come together to create an incredible dish that’s sure to impress.

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

Variations

One of the best parts of this recipe is its flexibility! You can switch up the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for extra sweetness and texture.
• Change the heat level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and gochugaru to suit your spice preference.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with hearty beans like black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Meat

Use a Dutch oven or deep pot for this step. Heat your chosen fat over high heat. Lightly season the meat with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. Searing all sides of the meat adds depth and richness to your chili. You may need to do this in batches to ensure even browning. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. When your oil is hot, add in the diced jalapeños and red onion. Stir frequently until they start to char on all sides—about 2 minutes. This step builds flavor by caramelizing these aromatic veggies. Next, add in minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Stir well to mix those spices into every nook!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Whisk together gochujang with beef broth until smooth; then pour this mixture into your pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (including their juices) and additional beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom—these are pure flavor! Add your seared meat back into the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover while cooking for about 2-3 hours until your meat becomes tender; lid on for thinner chili or off for thicker consistency.

Step 4: Adjust Heat Level

(Optional) If you’re craving some extra kick, stir in gochugaru (Korean chile flakes) while it’s cooking. This will elevate those spicy vibes even more!

Step 5: Serve Up!

Just before serving, stir in some chopped cilantro for freshness. I love serving this Korean Chile Con Carne over fluffy white rice topped with cheddar cheese and diced onions. Enjoy every bite of this heartwarming dish!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Chile Con Carne

Making a flavorful chili can be an art, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to a masterpiece!

• Use high-quality beef: The better the meat, the richer the flavor. Opting for well-marbled beef chuck roast ensures tenderness and adds depth to your chili.

• Don’t rush the browning: Searing the meat until it’s browned creates a crust that locks in juices and enhances flavor through caramelization. Patience is key!

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less gochugaru and adjust as it simmers. You can always add more heat later, but it’s tough to tone it down once it’s in!

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the chili to sit for 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows flavors to meld beautifully.

• Experiment with toppings: Be creative! Different toppings like fresh herbs or creamy ingredients can completely transform each bowl and provide delightful contrasts.

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Serving this Korean Chile Con Carne is just as fun as making it! With vibrant colors and rich flavors, you’ll want to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the spices.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop provides creaminess that contrasts nicely with the heat.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and enhances all those delicious flavors.

Side Dishes

• Steamed white rice: A classic accompaniment that soaks up all the savory goodness of the chili.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, adding a lovely texture contrast.
• Pickled vegetables: The tanginess cuts through richness while adding crunch—try pickled radishes or cucumbers!
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the spicy notes and adds a healthy touch.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable meal that friends and family will rave about. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Chile Con Carne is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty and flavorful meals throughout the week without much fuss. Here’s how to make the most of your delicious chili!

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 before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Korean Chile Con Carne.

Can I make Korean Chile Con Carne with ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as ground beef cooks faster.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level comes from jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and gochugaru. You can adjust these ingredients based on your heat preference to create a milder or spicier dish.

What can I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Toppings like sliced green onions and shredded cheese add a delightful touch!

Can I use other types of meat in Korean Chile Con Carne?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cuts of beef or even turkey for a lighter option. Just keep an eye on cooking times based on your chosen meat.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Korean Chile Con Carne becomes a new favorite in your kitchen! Its rich flavors and layers of heat create a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try making it; I’m confident you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your cooking adventure!