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, making it perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners. The balance of spice and rich flavor elevates the traditional meat chili into something uniquely satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates an unforgettable depth of flavor.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with cornbread, or as a filling for tacos—the possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With generous servings, it’s great for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your cooking experience. A sturdy Dutch oven or deep pot is essential for achieving the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for searing meat and simmering dishes evenly; retains heat well.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware surfaces and perfect for stirring without scratching.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meats, making prep faster and safer.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

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

For the Aromatics

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

For the Heat & Flavor

• 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

For the Base Liquid

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

For Extra Heat

• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Use a Dutch oven or a deep pot.
2. Heat the fat over high heat.
3. Lightly season the meat cubes with salt and pepper.
4. Sear the meat all over until browned; do this in batches if necessary.
5. Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

1. Reduce heat to medium once all meat is seared.
2. Add diced jalapeños and red onion to the hot oil.
3. Stir frequently to char on all sides for about 2 minutes.
4. Incorporate minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar while stirring.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang and dark beef broth until fully mixed.
2. Pour this mixture into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices) and remaining beef broth.
3. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.
4. Add back in the seared meat and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

1. Allow the chili to simmer uncovered for about 2–3 hours until meat is tender.
2. For a thinner consistency, cover while cooking; leave uncovered for a thicker chili.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. (Optional) Add gochugaru during cooking if you desire extra heat.
2. Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
3. Serve with white rice and toppings like cheddar cheese or diced onions as desired.

Enjoy your delicious 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 enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Rice

• White Rice: Serve hot with fluffy white rice to soak up the rich flavors.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, opt for brown rice, adding a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a creamy contrast to the spice.
• Diced Onions: Use green or white onions for a fresh crunch and added flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can cool down the heat and add richness.

As a Wrap

• Tortillas: Spoon the chili into warm tortillas for delicious wraps, perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve in crisp lettuce cups, making it light yet satisfying.

In a Bowl

• Chili Bowl: Serve in deep bowls for a comforting presentation. Pair with crusty bread for dipping.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To make your Korean Chile Con Carne truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• bold choice of Meat: Use high-quality beef chuck for tender and flavorful results. Marbling in the meat enhances taste and texture.
• bold Spice Adjustment: Adjust the amount of gochugaru based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure!
• bold Simmer Time: Allow plenty of simmering time—2-3 hours ensures the meat becomes tender and flavors meld beautifully.
• bold Broth Boost: Incorporate homemade beef broth if possible. This adds depth compared to store-bought versions.
• bold Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs like cilantro as garnish just before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can create an unforgettable meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. bold Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread complements the spicy chili perfectly.
2. bold Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad with lime dressing adds brightness to balance the meal.
3. bold Pickled Vegetables: Serve quick-pickled vegetables on the side for an acidic crunch that cuts through richness.
4. bold Grilled Veggies: Charred seasonal vegetables add smoky flavors and are easy to prepare on the grill.
5. bold Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides contrast in texture and flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment.
6. bold Nachos: Top tortilla chips with cheese and jalapeños, then serve alongside for a fun snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Korean Chile Con Carne can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Not enough seasoning can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust as you cook!
• Overcooking beef: Cooking the beef for too long can make it tough. Aim for tender chunks by simmering just until they are fork-tender.
• Ignoring the heat level: Using too few or too many spicy ingredients can affect balance. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Skipping the browning step: Neglecting to sear the meat can result in less flavor. Sear each piece until browned for depth of flavor.
• Not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid may lead to a dry chili. Ensure there’s enough broth to keep it moist during cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe containers in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I adjust the spice level in Korean Chile Con Carne?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños and gochugaru based on your preference. Start small and increase gradually!

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! For a lighter version, replace beef with chicken breast or thighs while following the original recipe’s instructions.

What sides pair well with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish goes well with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Toppings like avocado, cilantro, and cheese can enhance your meal.

Is Korean Chile Con Carne suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and freezes nicely, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is not just a hearty meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or spices to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you’ll love its rich flavors and satisfying warmth!