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 that make it perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or game day celebrations. The unique blend of Korean spices adds an exciting twist to the traditional Texas-style meat chili.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of gochujang and chipotle creates a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the beef.
• Spicy Kick: With jalapeños and gochugaru, this chili is not for the faint-hearted but is sure to satisfy spice lovers.
• Easy Preparation: Despite its bold flavors, this recipe requires minimal effort, making it accessible for any home cook.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or pair it with rice or toppings like cheese and onions for added enjoyment.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking the chili evenly and developing rich flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Korean Chile Con Carne, you’ll need the following 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 Beef

Start by heating your Dutch oven over high heat.
* Lightly season the cubed beef with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.
* Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides.
* Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess fat.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium once all the beef is seared.
* Add diced jalapeños and red onion to the pot. Stir frequently for about 2 minutes until charred on all sides.
* Incorporate minced garlic, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Continue stirring to meld flavors.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk together gochujang and dark beef broth until smooth.
* Pour this mixture into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices) and additional beef broth.
* Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
* Return seared beef to the pot; bring everything to a simmer.
* Cover if you prefer a thinner consistency or leave uncovered for a thicker chili.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

If you like more spice,
* Stir in gochugaru during cooking time.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked,
* Stir in chopped cilantro before serving.
Serve hot with white rice and toppings like cheddar cheese or diced onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this flavorful chili for a satisfying meal.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The perfect neutral base to soak up the spicy flavors of the chili.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and egg for a delicious twist that complements the heat.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and bright flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread pairs wonderfully with the spice, creating a comforting contrast.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and cools down the heat from the chili.

Salad

• Crisp Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette enhances the dish’s flavors without overwhelming it.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

Perfecting your Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate your cooking skills. Here are some tips to make this dish even better.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality beef and ripe tomatoes enhance the overall taste and texture.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust sweetness and acidity by tweaking brown sugar and tomato amounts for a harmonious flavor profile.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld all the spices, resulting in deeper flavors.
• Customize Heat Levels: Feel free to adjust chipotle peppers and gochugaru based on your preference for spice.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Adding fresh cilantro or lime juice right before serving brightens up the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Serving side dishes alongside your Korean Chile Con Carne can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: This sweet bread is a classic pairing that complements the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast, balancing out the heat with its crispness.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly seasoned add nutrition without overpowering flavors.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with butter or sour cream for added richness alongside the chili.
5. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips provide an excellent way to scoop up your chili while adding extra texture.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies create an exciting contrast with their acidity against the rich chili.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides a nutritious option that complements every bite of chili.
8. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for soaking up leftover sauce from your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks face challenges when making Korean Chile Con Carne. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the meat: This can lead to dry, tough pieces. Make sure to simmer only until the meat is tender, checking it periodically.
• Skipping the searing step: Not browning the meat can reduce flavor depth. Always sear your beef to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Ignoring spice balance: Too much or too little spice can ruin your chili. Taste as you go and adjust with gochugaru or brown sugar for balance.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Subpar canned tomatoes can affect your chili’s richness. Always opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for better flavor.
• Not allowing flavors to meld: Rushing the cooking time can limit flavor development. Allow at least 2 hours for simmering to let all ingredients blend well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool down before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion out servings for convenience when reheating.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until hot throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Korean Chile Con Carne.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level can vary based on how much gochujang and gochugaru you use. You can adjust according to your preference.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Chicken is a great alternative that will still absorb all those delicious flavors while providing a lighter option.

What sides pair well with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Serve it with white rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a flavorful dish that combines robust spices with tender meat for a comforting experience. It’s versatile enough for customization—add more veggies or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try today!