Blow your tastebuds away with this spicy Korean Chile Con Carne, fortified with FOUR layers of heat, savory tomatoes, and tender beef. This dish is perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you’re craving a comforting bowl of chili. The unique blend of Korean flavors adds a delightful twist to the traditional meat chili, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Complex Flavors: Experience the fusion of Korean ingredients that elevate classic chili.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking with optional gochugaru.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 10-12, perfect for parties or meal prep.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, with toppings like cheese and onions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons and cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking and developing rich flavors as you simmer the chili.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables and meat, enhancing cooking efficiency.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot without scratching your cookware.

this recipe

Ingredients

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.

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 dark beef broth
– 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

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; do this in batches if necessary. Transfer browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables & Spices

1. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot.
2. Stir frequently to char on all sides for about 2 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar.
4. Continue stirring frequently to incorporate spices evenly.

Step 3: Combine & Simmer

1. Whisk together gochujang and dark beef broth until fully incorporated.
2. Pour this mixture into the pot along with beef broth and fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices).
3. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits on the bottom of the pot.
4. Return seared meat to the pot; bring everything to a simmer for about 2-3 hours until meat is tender.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

1. If desired, stir in gochugaru (chile flakes) while it’s cooking for an extra kick.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
2. Serve hot with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the rich flavors of the chili.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Infuse your rice with lime and cilantro for a fresh twist.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheese adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Diced Green Onions: Freshness from green onions enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chile.

In Tacos

• Soft Tortillas: Use corn or flour tortillas to wrap up the chili for a delicious handheld option.
• Cabbage Slaw: Add crunch with some slaw on top of the tacos for extra texture.

As a Soup

• Garnish with Cilantro: Add fresh cilantro before serving for added flavor and color.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty chili.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To make your Korean Chile Con Carne truly exceptional, follow these tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef well before searing to maximize flavor.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté vegetables until they are slightly charred, which deepens their taste and adds complexity.
• Low and Slow Cooking: Cook your chili slowly to allow all flavors to meld beautifully; patience pays off!
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go; add more gochugaru if you prefer it spicier or less if you want it milder.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting your chili rest allows flavors to develop further, making it even tastier when served.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

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

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a refreshing contrast to the heat of the chile.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Add tanginess with pickled cucumbers or radishes as a palate cleanser.
4. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes topped with butter, salt, and pepper for a hearty complement.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Salad Greens: Fresh greens lightly dressed can provide balance with their crispness and light flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Korean Chile Con Carne experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the meat quality: Using low-quality beef can result in tough and chewy chili. Opt for fresh, well-marbled cuts like beef chuck for tenderness.

• Overcooking or undercooking the beef: Not simmering long enough can lead to tough meat, while overcooking may dry it out. Aim for 2-3 hours of simmering for perfect tenderness.

• Skipping the seasoning layers: Adding all spices at once can dull flavors. Layer them in stages, starting with aromatics like onion and garlic, to build depth.

• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste your chili during cooking can lead to an unbalanced dish. Adjust seasonings gradually and remember that flavors meld as they cook.

• Rushing the cooling process: Allowing your chili to cool too quickly can affect its flavor development. Let it rest before serving so the flavors can meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean Chile Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot.

• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Korean Chile Con Carne:

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne unique?

Korean Chile Con Carne combines traditional Texan chili flavors with spicy Korean elements like gochujang and gochugaru, creating a unique fusion of tastes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amounts of jalapeños, chipotle peppers, and gochugaru used. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors!

How do I customize my Korean Chile Con Carne?

Feel free to add beans, corn, or other vegetables for added texture and flavor. Topping with cheese or green onions also enhances its appeal.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful blend of rich flavors and spicy heat that will impress anyone at your dinner table. Its versatility allows for plenty of customization, making it perfect whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying leftovers alone. Give this recipe a try and discover how easy it is to create a comforting dish that packs a punch!

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Korean Chile Con Carne

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 10 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of Korean Chile Con Carne, a delightful fusion of traditional Texan chili and spicy Korean ingredients. This hearty dish features tender beef simmered with savory tomatoes, aromatic onions, and layers of heat from jalapeños and gochujang. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is not only comforting but also customizable to suit your spice preference. Serve it over rice or make tacos for an exciting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil
• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1" cubes
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 2 jalapeños, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, diced
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• Optional: gochugaru (Korean chile flakes) for added heat

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over high heat. Season beef with salt and pepper; sear until browned on all sides, then set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté jalapeños and red onion until charred. Add garlic, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, brown sugar, cumin, and stir well.
3. Whisk together gochujang and dark beef broth; pour into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes and beef broth.
4. Return seared beef to the pot; bring to a simmer. Cook covered for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.
5. For extra heat, stir in gochugaru during cooking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 180 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Adjust spices to your preference; start with less gochugaru if you prefer milder flavors. Leftovers improve in flavor; let them cool before storing in an airtight container.