Korean Chile Con Carne

Blow your tastebuds away with this spicy Korean Chile Con Carne. This dish combines FOUR layers of heat, savory tomatoes, and tender beef, making it perfect for cozy dinners or lively gatherings. Inspired by traditional Texas-style meat chili, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of Korean flavors. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving a hearty meal, this Korean Chile Con Carne will impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of spices and gochujang creates a delightful kick that enhances the meat’s richness.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more gochugaru or jalapeños.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this flavorful dish in just a few hours.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for quick meals.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or even on its own as a comforting bowl of chili.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Korean Chile Con Carne, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have kitchen items to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking and simmering, allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while scraping up delicious browned bits.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for efficiently chopping all your fresh ingredients to enhance flavor.

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

For the Aromatics

• 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

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked salt

For the Sauce

• 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup Negro Modelo, or preferred dark beer
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth

For Extra Heat

• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

• In a Dutch oven or deep pot, heat the fat over high heat.
• Lightly season the cubed beef with salt and pepper.
• Sear the meat all over until browned; you may need to do this in batches.
• Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

• Reduce heat to medium once all the meat is seared.
• Add diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot. Stir frequently until charred on all sides (about 2 minutes).
• Incorporate minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang and beef broth until fully combined.
• Pour this mixture into the pot along with beer and fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices).
• Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom of the pot.
• Return seared beef to the pot. Bring everything to a simmer for about 2-3 hours until meat is tender.
• Cover if you prefer thinner chili; simmer uncovered for thicker consistency.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

• If desired, stir in gochugaru during cooking for additional heat.

Step 5: Final Touches

• Once cooked through, stir in chopped cilantro before serving.
• I recommend serving with white rice and toppings like cheddar cheese and diced onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it over rice or as part of a larger spread, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the chili over fluffy white rice for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavors, making each bite delightful.

With Tortillas

• Use warm tortillas to scoop up the chili. This method adds a fun, interactive element to your meal.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy finish. The melted cheese complements the spiciness of the chili beautifully.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color. It brightens up the dish and balances the heat.

As a Chili Dog

• Spoon the chili over hot dogs for a creative twist. Top with onions and cheese for an extra treat.

In a Taco Bowl

• Layer the chili in a taco bowl with avocado, salsa, and sour cream for a delicious fusion meal.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To ensure your Korean Chile Con Carne reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck roast to achieve tender and flavorful results.
• Sear Properly: Take time to sear the meat until golden brown. This step builds depth of flavor in your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of gochugaru or jalapeños based on your heat preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allow sufficient cooking time for flavors to meld and meat to become tender. A longer simmer results in richer taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can elevate the dish significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Experiment with Toppings: Personalize each bowl with toppings like avocado, sour cream, or diced onions for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance its flavors and create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread: This sweet bread offers a nice contrast to the spicy chili and is perfect for soaking up juices.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, balancing out the richness of the chili.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide acidity that cuts through the heat, making it an ideal accompaniment.
4. Steamed Rice: Simple steamed rice serves as an excellent base that pairs well with any saucy dish.
5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances each bite and provides cooling relief from the spice.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and health benefits while complementing the flavor profile of the chili.
7. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa offer a light snack option before diving into your hearty meal.
8. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast against spicy flavors, rounding out your dinner perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chile Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Searing too much meat at once can lower the pot’s temperature, preventing proper browning. To avoid this, work in batches and ensure each piece has enough space.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping salt or other seasonings during cooking can lead to bland chili. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Rushing the cooking process will result in tough meat. Allow enough time for simmering so that the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
• Using Low-Quality Meat: Choosing low-grade beef might affect texture and taste. Opt for a good quality chuck roast for the best results in your Korean Chile Con Carne.
• Not Incorporating Layers of Flavor: Failing to add ingredients like gochujang and chipotle can leave your chili one-dimensional. Use these key ingredients to create deep, complex flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Korean Chile Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Transfer cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it appears too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Korean Chile Con Carne?

Korean Chile Con Carne is a spicy twist on traditional Texas-style chili, combining tender beef with layers of heat from gochujang and chipotle peppers.

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

The total cooking time is approximately 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.

Can I customize my Korean Chile Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochugaru or jalapeños according to your preference.

What should I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish pairs well with white rice or cornbread, along with toppings like cheddar cheese and diced green onions for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Making Korean Chile Con Carne a day in advance enhances its flavors. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful fusion dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting warmth. Its versatility allows you to tweak ingredients based on your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own—experiment with toppings or spice levels for a unique twist each time!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Korean Chile Con Carne

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the bold and spicy flavors of Korean Chile Con Carne, a delightful fusion that elevates traditional Texas-style chili with unique Korean elements. This dish features tender beef slow-cooked in a rich sauce infused with gochujang and chipotle peppers, delivering a multi-layered heat that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for cozy dinners or lively gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable to suit your spice preferences. Serve it over rice, with tortillas, or as a standalone comfort food—this hearty meal is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 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 Negro Modelo, or preferred dark beer
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

1. Sear the beef in a Dutch oven until browned on all sides. Set aside.
2. Cook diced onions and jalapeños until charred, then add garlic and chipotle peppers.
3. Combine gochujang with beef broth and pour into the pot along with beer and tomatoes.
4. Return the beef to the pot and simmer for 2-3 hours until tender.
5. Adjust heat with gochugaru if desired, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow-cooking
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 90mg