Korean Chile Con Carne

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch and warms your soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Korean Chile Con Carne is one of my absolute favorites. It beautifully combines the rich flavors of Texas-style chili with the unique heat and sweetness of Korean ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table.

What makes this dish so special is its depth of flavor. With four layers of heat and tender chunks of beef simmered in savory tomatoes, it’s a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re serving it on game day or just need something hearty after a long day, this Korean Chile Con Carne won’t disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: Each bite bursts with spicy goodness from gochujang and chipotle peppers.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish!
• Feeds a Crowd: Ideal for parties or meal prep; it serves 10-12 people generously.
• Customizable: Switch up ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly night or a festive gathering, this chili fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Korean Chile Con Carne. These items are not only accessible but also pack great flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef

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

For the Vegetables and Spices

• 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

For the Base

• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup dark beef broth (or preferred dark beer)
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground beef or turkey for a different texture while keeping it light.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute meat with hearty beans like kidney or black beans for plant-based goodness.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for added nutrition and color.
• Change the heat level: Adjust the number of jalapeños and chipotles according to how spicy you like your chili.

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating the fat in a Dutch oven over high heat. Lightly season your beef cubes with salt and pepper before adding them to the pot. Searing is crucial here; it locks in juices and adds depth of flavor. You’ll want to do this in batches so that each piece gets nicely browned. Once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Now reduce the heat to medium and add your diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot. Stir frequently until they char slightly—this should take about two minutes. The goal here is to enhance their natural sweetness before adding minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Continue stirring to combine all those wonderful spices.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gochujang and beef broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into your pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (juices included) and additional beef broth. Make sure you scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom; they add amazing flavor! Finally, return your seared meat to the pot and bring everything to a simmer. Cover with a lid if you prefer a thinner consistency or leave it off for thicker chili.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

If you’re feeling adventurous and want more kick, stir in some gochugaru (Korean chile flakes) while it’s cooking. Let everything simmer away for about 2–3 hours until that beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Finish it Off

Once done simmering, stir in freshly chopped cilantro at the end for brightness. I highly recommend serving this delicious Korean Chile Con Carne over white rice with toppings like shredded cheddar cheese and diced green onions. Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Korean Chile Con Carne

Making Korean Chile Con Carne can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you to enhance the flavors and ensure perfect results.

• Sear the Meat Well: Taking the time to properly sear your beef chuck roast creates a rich, caramelized flavor that deepens the overall taste of the chili. It also adds a lovely texture that you’ll appreciate in every bite.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality beef broth and fire-roasted tomatoes. These ingredients are essential for developing robust flavors in your chili, resulting in a dish that tastes homemade and hearty.

• Adjust Spiciness: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeños and gochugaru based on your heat preference. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to suit your palate without sacrificing flavor.

• Let It Simmer: Don’t rush the cooking process! Allowing the chili to simmer for 2-3 hours helps all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

• Rest Before Serving: If possible, let your chili sit for 30 minutes after cooking before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to develop even further, making each bowl even more scrumptious.

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Presenting your Korean Chile Con Carne can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish when serving it up for family or friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the chili.
• Diced Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and crunch that complements the cozy warmth of the chili.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese melts into the hot chili, adding creaminess and an additional layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs all those delectable juices from the chili, making each bite delightful.
• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread provides a comforting contrast to the spicy chili while enhancing its southwestern flair!
• Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled radishes or cucumbers adds a zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish and refreshes your palate.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings smoothness and balances out spiciness, making it an excellent topping alongside your garnishes.

Enjoy crafting this flavorful Korean Chile Con Carne! Each bite promises warmth, spice, and comfort—perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Korean Chile Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

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

FAQs

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

Can I make Korean Chile Con Carne without beef?

Yes! You can substitute beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version of this dish.

What can I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips. Consider adding toppings like cheddar cheese, diced onions, or fresh cilantro!

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spiciness depends on your preference! This recipe includes jalapeños and gochujang which provide a nice kick, but you can adjust the amount of these ingredients to suit your taste.

How long does it take to cook Korean Chile Con Carne?

Cooking this dish takes approximately 2-3 hours to ensure that the beef becomes tender and all the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Korean Chile Con Carne as much as I do! The combination of rich flavors and comforting warmth makes it a special dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings and sides. Happy cooking!