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 is perfect for gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. The unique fusion of Korean flavors combined with a classic chili base makes it an unforgettable dish that you’ll want to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Complex Flavors: Experience a rich blend of spices and ingredients that elevate the traditional chili con carne to new heights.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeños and gochugaru to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This recipe yields a generous serving size, making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
• Comforting and Filling: Packed with protein and hearty vegetables, this dish will leave you satisfied and warm on chilly days.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this flavorful dish without any hassle.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools you’ll need. These tools help ensure even cooking and enhance the flavors.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: This allows for even heat distribution while simmering the chili, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, promoting longevity.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures precise chopping of ingredients, which helps in even cooking.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Korean Chile Con Carne, you will need the following ingredients:

Protein & Fats

• 2 tablespoons beef tallow, or neutral oil
• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1” cubes

Vegetables & Aromatics

• Kosher salt
• Fresh ground black pepper
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 2 jalapeños, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely diced

Spices & Seasonings

• 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

Tomatoes & Broth

• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup preferred dark beef broth
• 5 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 cups beef broth

Chile Flakes

• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile flakes)

How to Make Korean Chile Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Use a Dutch oven or deep pot. Heat the fat over high heat.
2. Lightly season the meat with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper.
3. Sear the meat all over; you will likely need to do this in batches.
4. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate lined with a paper towel.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

1. If you prefer a thinner consistency, cover with a lid while cooking; simmer uncovered for a thicker result.

Step 5: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

1. Stir in gochugaru (Korean chile flakes) during cooking for extra heat if desired.

Step 6: Serve

1. Stir in chopped cilantro at the end.
2. Serve with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced onions for added flavor! Enjoy your delicious Korean Chile Con Carne!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Serving Korean Chile Con Carne can elevate your meal experience, making it more enjoyable and satisfying. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that helps balance the heat of the chili.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Infuse your rice with zesty flavors for an extra kick.

Toppings

• Cheddar Cheese: Melted on top, it adds creaminess and richness.
• Sliced Green Onions: Fresh and crunchy, they provide a nice contrast to the chili’s texture.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: A sweet and buttery side that complements the spiciness.
• Pickled Vegetables: Offers a tangy crunch that brightens up the dish.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To make your Korean Chile Con Carne truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the Meat: Allowing the beef to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will bring vibrant flavors to your chili.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños or gochugaru based on your heat preference.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for a bit before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for depth.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Cornbread: Sweet, moist, and perfect for sopping up that rich chili sauce.
2. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that cools down the spice while adding flavor.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips that can be used as scoops for your chili or enjoyed on their own.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies charred until tender; they provide a healthy complement.
5. Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and balances out the heat with its creamy dressing.
6. Baked Potatoes: Soft potatoes topped with cheese and sour cream make an excellent base for chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Korean Chile Con Carne, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can hinder its flavor and texture.

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season the beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt and pepper generously when browning the meat.
• Skipping the sear: Skipping the searing step will prevent a rich depth of flavor. Make sure to brown the meat well on all sides before moving on.
• Underestimating cooking time: Rushing the simmering process can result in tough meat. Allow at least 2-3 hours for the chili to cook for tender results.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients will diminish your chili’s taste. Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality meats whenever possible.
• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste during cooking may lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust spices and seasoning according to your preference throughout the cooking process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Korean Chile Con Carne in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a suitable container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Divide into single-serving portions for easier thawing.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Korean Chile Con Carne?

Korean Chile Con Carne is a spicy twist on traditional chili, combining savory beef with Korean spices like gochujang for a unique flavor profile.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef. Just adjust cooking times as chicken may cook faster than beef.

How spicy is Korean Chile Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of gochugaru or jalapeños used, allowing you to customize it to your taste preference.

What can I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

It pairs well with white rice, cornbread, or topped with cheese and green onions for added flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils, using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is an exciting dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting textures. It’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on cozy nights in. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spice levels for an even more personalized touch!