Smoky Texas Chili

Make Smoky Texas Chili. This recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for game day or the holidays. The rich flavors of smoked beef combined with a medley of spices create a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this chili will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious chili without any hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of smoked beef and spices elevates the taste to a whole new level.
• Versatile: Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a chilly night at home.
• Filling and Satisfying: Packed with ingredients, each bowl offers warmth and satisfaction.
• Dumpling Delight: The cheddar jalapeño dumplings add a unique touch to traditional chili.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: This tool gives the beef its signature smoky flavor that makes this chili stand out.
• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chili evenly while infusing all the flavors together.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps in easily chopping vegetables and meat, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chili

• 4 lbs. Beef Chuck Roast, smoked, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
• ¼ cup dark chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 Tbsp. cumin
• 1 Tbsp. fine black pepper
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 2 roasted poblanos, coarsely chopped
• 1 qt. beef stock
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp. Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp. beef base
• 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce (or alternative)
• Optional: Kosher Salt to taste

For the Dumplings

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ cup honey or ½ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ – ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced

How to Make Smoky Texas Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Smoker

Add wood chunks, chips, pellets, or charcoal to the smoker according to manufacturer instructions. Preheat to 250°F.

Step 2: Season the Chuck Roast

Season trimmed Chuck Roast generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Smoke the Beef

Place Chuck Roast on rack in smoker according to manufacturer instructions. Set timer for 8 hours.

Step 4: Wrap and Continue Smoking

After 4 hours, when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 180°F, wrap it with unwaxed butcher paper and place it back on the smoker.

Step 5: Finish Smoking

After another 4 hours, when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 208–210°F, remove it from the smoker.

Step 6: Rest the Meat

Let rest in the butcher paper for at least 1 hour. Slice into cubes right before adding to the chili.

Step 7: Sauté Vegetables

In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sprinkle with salt if desired. Sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes). Add red peppers and sauté for another 2 minutes.

Step 8: Add Spices

Add dark chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and garlic powder; stir frequently for about a minute allowing spices to bloom but not burn.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

Add cubed smoked Chuck Roast and poblano peppers. Stir in beef stock and crushed tomatoes to deglaze the pot.

Step 10: Season Further

Add Mexican oregano, beef base, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 11: Simmer

Bring chili to a boil then turn stove down to low heat and simmer covered for about 40 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 12: Mix Dumpling Batter

While chili is cooking, mix together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar for cheddar jalapeño dumplings.

Step 13: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add eggs folding gently to combine; then stir in buttermilk until combined.

Step 14: Fold in Cheese and Jalapeños

Gently fold in cheese and jalapeños being careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 15: Cook Dumplings

Place dollops of dumpling batter (about 1–2 oz.) into the chili. Continue simmering covered for about another 20 minutes or until dumplings are firm yet fluffy.

Step 16: Serve

Serve chili in bowls garnished with additional shredded cheese, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Enjoy your Smoky Texas Chili!

How to Serve Smoky Texas Chili

Serving Smoky Texas Chili is an art that enhances its rich flavors and makes it a memorable dish for any gathering. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your chili experience.

With Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – Add a generous handful of shredded sharp cheddar for creaminess.
• Sliced Scallions – Fresh scallions bring a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
• Cilantro Leaves – A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and brightens the dish.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili.

In a Bread Bowl

• Bread Bowls – Hollow out small round loaves of bread to create edible bowls for your chili, adding a hearty touch.

With Cornbread

• Cornbread Muffins – Serve warm cornbread muffins on the side for a sweet and savory combination that complements the chili perfectly.

As a Chili Bar

• Chili Bar Setup – Create a DIY chili bar where guests can customize their bowls with various toppings and sides, making it interactive and fun.

How to Perfect Smoky Texas Chili

Perfecting Smoky Texas Chili involves attention to detail and understanding the ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your chili turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Meat – Opt for high-quality beef chuck roast to enhance the smoky flavor and tenderness of your chili.
• Smoke It Right – Maintain consistent smoking temperatures; this enriches the meat’s flavor while keeping it juicy.
• Layer Your Spices – Add spices in stages during cooking to build depth of flavor. Bloom them in hot oil for maximum effect.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together, resulting in a more robust dish.
• Taste as You Go – Regularly taste your chili throughout the cooking process, adjusting seasoning if needed for balance.
• Customize Texture – If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some beans or add cornmeal towards the end of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Texas Chili

Pairing side dishes with Smoky Texas Chili can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options that complement its bold flavors.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, balancing flavors beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that contrasts well with the rich chili.
3. Rice Pilaf – Light rice pilaf serves as a neutral base that absorbs the flavorful broth from the chili.
4. Tortilla Chips – Crispy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or enjoyed with salsa.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add a smoky element that enhances the overall meal.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob offers sweetness and texture alongside your dish.
7. Fried Plantains – Sweet fried plantains provide a delicious contrast to spicy dishes like smoky chili.
8. Pickled Jalapeños – These tangy slices can add an extra kick when served alongside your bowl of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoky Texas Chili, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Meat: This can lead to tough pieces. Make sure to monitor the internal temperature of the smoked beef chuck roast and let it rest properly.
• Ignoring Spice Timing: Adding spices too early can cause them to burn. Bloom your spices in oil for a minute before adding other ingredients to maximize their flavor.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing the pot can result in a less flavorful chili. Always scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot when adding liquids.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Subpar ingredients can diminish taste. Always choose fresh vegetables and good-quality stock for the best results.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Chili benefits from slow cooking. Allow it to simmer for at least 40 minutes to develop rich flavors.
• Neglecting Toppings: Toppings enhance presentation and taste. Don’t skip garnishing with cheese, scallions, or cilantro for added flair.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Smoky Texas Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing Smoky Texas Chili

• Freeze chili in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months. Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Smoky Texas Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Smoky Texas Chili unique?

Smoky Texas Chili stands out due to its robust flavors from smoked beef chuck roast and a blend of spices, creating a deep, rich taste that’s perfect for gatherings.

Can I customize my Smoky Texas Chili?

Absolutely! You can add beans, different peppers, or even switch out meats like turkey or chicken based on your preferences.

How spicy is Smoky Texas Chili?

The level of spiciness depends on your choice of peppers. Adjust jalapeño quantity or omit it if you prefer a milder version.

What sides pair well with Smoky Texas Chili?

Enjoy it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that complements this hearty dish.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Texas Chili is not just comforting; it’s versatile and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!