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, weeknight dinners, or cozy nights in, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Hearty and Filling: With tender beef and rich ingredients, this chili is satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeños and gochugaru you use.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this flavorful dish without hassle.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields generous servings, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Korean Chile Con Carne successfully, having the right tools is essential. They help ensure even cooking and flavor development.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: This tool provides even heat distribution, essential for cooking the beef evenly while simmering.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, helping to blend flavors seamlessly.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons beef tallow, or neutral oil
• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 cubes
• kosher salt
• fresh ground black pepper

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 2 jalapeños, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely diced

Spices and Flavorings

• 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

Liquid Ingredients

• 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup preferred dark beef broth
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth

Optional Heat Addition

• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

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

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Reduce heat to medium once all meat is browned.
2. Add the diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot; stir frequently for about 2 minutes until charred.
3. Add minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar; stir well to combine.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Whisk together gochujang and beef broth in a separate bowl until well mixed.
2. Pour this mixture into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (including juices) using a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits on the bottom.
3. Return seared meat to the pot; bring everything to a simmer for about 2–3 hours until meat is tender.
4. If you prefer thinner chili consistency, cover with a lid while cooking; if thicker is desired, simmer uncovered.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

1. Stir in gochugaru during cooking for an additional kick if desired.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Stir in chopped cilantro before serving.
2. Serve with white rice and toppings like cheddar cheese or diced onions as desired.

Enjoy your hearty Korean Chile Con Carne!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for comfort food, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With White Rice

• Serve the chili over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth, making each bite a delight.

Topped with Cheddar Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of your bowl. The melted cheese adds creaminess and balances the spice of the chili.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Add chopped green onions for a fresh crunch. They bring brightness to the rich flavors of the dish.

With Fresh Cilantro

• For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving. It adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the spices.

In Tortillas

• Use flour or corn tortillas to create wraps or tacos. This makes for a fun and portable way to enjoy the chili.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To ensure your Korean Chile Con Carne turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using well-marbled beef chuck roast enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Sear Properly: Don’t rush the searing process; browning the meat well adds depth to the dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of gochujang and gochugaru based on your heat preference.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and jalapeños make a significant difference in taste.
• Simmer Slowly: Letting it simmer for longer will yield more tender meat and richer flavors.
• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your chili and adjust seasonings as needed for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Cornbread
   A slightly sweet cornbread complements the spicy chili perfectly. Serve warm with butter.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chili.

3. Avocado Slices
   Creamy avocado slices provide a cool contrast to the heat of the chile con carne.

4. Pickled Vegetables
   Serve pickled radishes or cucumbers for a zesty bite that cuts through the spiciness.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet edge that pairs wonderfully with bold flavors.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn enhances any meal with its natural sweetness and smoky flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chile Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the flavor and consistency of your dish.

• Not searing the meat properly: Searing adds depth of flavor. Ensure your meat is browned on all sides before proceeding.
• Skipping the spices: The spices are essential for that authentic taste. Don’t skip any; they work together to create a well-rounded flavor.
• Ignoring simmering time: Letting it simmer is crucial for tender meat. Aim for at least 2 hours for the best results.
• Overcrowding the pot: Cooking in batches helps achieve better browning. Avoid cramming too much meat in at once, or it will steam instead of brown.
• Neglecting adjustments for heat: Everyone’s spice tolerance varies. Taste as you go and adjust the heat with gochugaru accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in a covered dish. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Korean Chile Con Carne?

Korean Chile Con Carne is a fusion dish that combines traditional Mexican chili flavors with Korean ingredients like gochujang, resulting in a unique and spicy stew.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spiciness depends on the amount of gochugaru and jalapeños used. You can adjust these ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make Korean Chile Con Carne ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It tastes even better the next day!

What can I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Serve it with white rice or enjoy it with toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, or shredded cheese for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and warmth. Its versatility allows you to customize the spice levels and toppings according to your preference. Give this recipe a try for your next gathering or cozy night in!