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, based on the traditional Texas-style meat chili. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it offers a delightful fusion of Korean spices and classic chili goodness that will satisfy any appetite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates a deep, spicy flavor that excites the palate.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Serving up to 12 people, it’s an ideal dish for parties or family dinners.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more or less gochugaru to suit your taste preferences.
• Comforting & Hearty: This dish is a warm embrace on chilly nights, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking and developing rich flavors as it retains heat well.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precision when chopping vegetables and meat, making prep faster and safer.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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, based on the traditional Texas-style meat chili.

For Cooking

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

Vegetables & 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

Liquids & Tomatoes

• 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 Meat

Use a Dutch oven or deep pot. Heat the fat over high heat. Lightly season the meat with salt & pepper.
1. Sear the meat all over until browned; you may need to do this in batches.
2. Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. When the oil is hot:
1. Add in the diced jalapeños and red onion. Stir frequently to char on all sides for about 2 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar.
3. Continue stirring frequently to incorporate all spices thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk together gochujang and beef broth in a separate bowl until fully incorporated.
1. Pour this mixture into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices) using a wooden spoon to scrape up bits from the bottom.
2. Add seared meat back into the pot.
3. Bring everything to a simmer for about 2–3 hours until the meat is tender.

Step 4: Adjust Spice Level (Optional)

If you want extra heat while it’s cooking:
1. Stir in gochugaru (chile flakes).

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
Serve with white rice and toppings like cheddar cheese and diced onions for added flavor! Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. When serving this chili, consider these creative options to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Fluffy and mild, it complements the spicy flavors perfectly.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the heat of the chili.

Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle on top melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
• Sour Cream: Offers a cooling contrast to the spicy notes in the chili.
• Diced Green Onions: Freshness and crunch elevate each bite.

As a Wrap

• Tortillas: Use warm flour or corn tortillas to wrap up the chili for a fun handheld meal.
• Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, serve in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To make your Korean Chile Con Carne even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck roast for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Sear Properly: Don’t rush the searing process; it builds rich flavor through browning.
• Balance Spices: Adjust gochujang and gochugaru according to your heat preference while keeping a harmonious flavor profile.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances its depth of flavor and tenderizes the meat further.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your chili during cooking. Adjust seasoning as needed for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cornbread: A sweet, buttery addition that complements spicy flavors well.
2. Coleslaw: Provides a crunchy texture and tangy contrast to the richness of the chili.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Add brightness and acidity, balancing out the hearty dish.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a smoky touch that pairs nicely with chili.
5. Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every delicious bit of chili while adding a savory element.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed option that brings freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Korean Chile Con Carne. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat adequately can lead to bland chili. Always season your beef with salt and pepper before searing to enhance flavor.
• Bold overcooking: Cooking the chili for too long can result in dry meat. Keep an eye on the simmering time; about 2-3 hours is ideal for tender beef.
• Bold ingredient shortcuts: Skipping ingredients like gochujang or chipotle can reduce flavor complexity. Use quality ingredients for a rich taste.
• Bold ignoring texture: Not adjusting for desired consistency may lead to overly thick or thin chili. Use a lid based on your preference during cooking.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Garnishes like cilantro and green onions add freshness. Don’t forget these toppings for a complete experience!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keeps for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Korean Chile Con Carne that may help you as you prepare this dish.

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne different from traditional chili?

Korean Chile Con Carne incorporates gochujang, which adds a unique sweetness and spice compared to traditional chili flavors.

Can I substitute beef with chicken or turkey?

Yes, using chicken or turkey is an excellent alternative! Just adjust the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of jalapeños and gochugaru used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat!

What should I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Pair it with white rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread. Toppings like cheddar cheese and diced onions complement the dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is a delightful fusion of flavors that will excite your palate. This versatile recipe encourages customization; feel free to adjust spices or add your favorite veggies. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!