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A bowl of rich, hearty Texas beef chili, garnished with fresh cilantro

Proven way to grow Texas Beef Chili in 3 steps

While this isn't a traditional recipe, if you're looking to "grow" your knowledge of Texas Beef Chili, start by understanding its core components and cooking techniques. This guide will help you grasp the foundational elements of this robust dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Understanding the Basics
  • 2 lbs Chili meat coarsely ground or diced beef chuck
  • 6 Tbsp Chili powder A good quality blend
  • 2 Tbsp Cumin
  • 1 Tbsp Oregano
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 large Onion chopped
  • 4 cups Beef broth
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato paste
  • 2 Tbsp Masa harina for thickening
  • to taste Salt & pepper
Optional Enhancements
  • 1-2 Jalapeños seeded and minced
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 oz Dark chocolate unsweetened, for depth of flavor

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

The Foundation
  1. Brown your beef in a large pot, breaking it apart as it cooks, then drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic in the same pot until softened, then stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika (if using), and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Building the Flavor
  1. Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and add the minced jalapeños (if using).
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for at least 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the meat to tenderize.
Finishing Touches
  1. Stir in the masa harina, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, and continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
  2. Add the unsweetened dark chocolate (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste, then let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For deeper flavor, prepare the chili a day ahead and reheat; it often tastes even better the next day. Adjust spice levels to your preference by adding more or less jalapeño and chili powder. Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh chopped cilantro.