Smoky Texas Chili

Make Smoky Texas Chili. This recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for game day or the holidays. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this chili stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This chili combines tender beef chuck with rich spices, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
• Smoky Flavor: The smoked beef adds depth and complexity that elevates traditional chili to new heights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as is or pair it with cornbread or rice for a complete meal; it’s perfect for customizing.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 16 servings, it’s ideal for parties, gatherings, or family dinners.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Smoky Texas Chili, gather your essential tools. Having the right kitchen gadgets will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Smoker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for slow-cooking and simmering your chili evenly.
• Smoker: Infuses the beef with delicious smoky flavor that can’t be replicated on the stovetop.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows for precise chopping of vegetables and meat, saving time during prep.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 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

For the Spices

• 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

For the Base

• 1 qt. beef stock
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp. Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp. beef base
• 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 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
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced

How to Make Smoky Texas Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Smoker

Add wood chunks, chips, pellets, or charcoal to your smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat it to 250°F.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Season trimmed Chuck Roast generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Smoke the Chuck Roast

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

Step 4: Wrap and Continue Smoking

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

Step 5: Finish Smoking

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

Step 6: Rest Before Cutting

Let the roast rest in butcher paper for at least 1 hour before slicing into cubes.

Step 7: Sauté Vegetables

In a dutch oven over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil and chopped onion (season 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

Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and garlic powder; cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

Add cubed smoked Chuck Roast and poblano peppers; stir well to coat with spices. Deglaze pot by stirring in beef stock and tomatoes.

Step 10: Season the Chili

Add Mexican oregano, beef base, Worcestershire sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 11: Simmer

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

Step 12: Prepare Dumpling Batter

Mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl for cheddar jalapeño dumplings.

Step 13: Combine Wet Ingredients

Gently fold in eggs until combined; then stir buttermilk into mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 14: Add Cheese & Jalapeños

Fold in cheese and jalapeños carefully without overmixing batter.

Step 15: Cook Dumplings

Place dollops of dumpling batter into simmering chili; cover pot again and continue simmering for about 20 minutes until dumplings are firm yet fluffy.

Now your Smoky Texas Chili is ready! Serve hot garnished with shredded cheese, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, or a dollop of sour cream if desired!

How to Serve Smoky Texas Chili

Serving Smoky Texas Chili can elevate your gatherings, whether it’s a game day or a holiday feast. Here are some delightful ways to present this flavorful dish.

In a Bread Bowl

• Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or ciabatta and fill it with hot chili for a fun and edible serving option.

With Cornbread

• Serve alongside warm, buttery cornbread to complement the smoky flavors. Add honey butter for an extra touch of sweetness.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Garnish each bowl with shredded cheese, sliced scallions, or fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.

As a Chili Bar

• Set up a chili bar where guests can customize their bowls with various toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado.

On Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with Smoky Texas Chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings for an irresistible nacho platter.

How to Perfect Smoky Texas Chili

To make the best Smoky Texas Chili possible, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality beef chuck roast for tenderness and rich flavor in your chili.
• Smoke It Right: Smoking the meat adds depth; ensure your smoker is at the right temperature for even cooking.
• Spice Balance: Adjust spices according to your heat preference. Start with less chili powder and add more as needed.
• Let It Simmer: Allow the chili to simmer longer for deeper flavors; the longer it cooks, the better it tastes.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste during cooking to balance flavors. This ensures you get the perfect seasoning.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chili rest after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Texas Chili

Pairing side dishes with Smoky Texas Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cheddar Jalapeño Cornbread
   A spicy twist on classic cornbread, this dish pairs well with the robust flavors of chili.

2. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty chili.

3. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf provides a neutral base that balances the smoky heat of chili perfectly.

4. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled vegetables bring freshness and additional flavor contrasts to your meal.

5. Tortilla Chips
   Crispy tortilla chips can be served alongside for dipping or topping into the chili for crunchiness.

6. Pickled Jalapeños
   For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños add zesty flavor that complements every spoonful of chili.

7. Crispy Potato Wedges
   Seasoned potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch while soaking up some of that delicious chili sauce.

8. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances out the spiciness of the Smoky Texas Chili wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Smoky Texas Chili game. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-seasoning: Adding too much salt or spice can overwhelm the dish. Start with less and adjust as needed while cooking.
• Skipping the smoking step: The unique flavor of Smoky Texas Chili comes from smoked meat. Don’t skip this crucial preparation step for the best results.
• Ignoring simmer time: Rushing the simmering process prevents flavors from developing fully. Allow the chili to simmer for at least 40 minutes.
• Not deglazing the pot: Failing to scrape up browned bits can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always deglaze your pot after sautéing vegetables and spices.
• Using canned tomatoes without draining: Excess liquid can make your chili too soupy. Drain canned tomatoes to achieve the right consistency.
• Overmixing dumpling batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough dumplings. Gently fold ingredients together just until combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Smoky Texas Chili

• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for easy thawing.

Reheating Smoky Texas Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Smoky Texas Chili.

Can I make Smoky Texas Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili tastes even better when made ahead of time, as flavors continue to meld.

What can I substitute for beef in Smoky Texas Chili?

You can use turkey or lamb as an alternative protein option if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How spicy is Smoky Texas Chili?

The spice level can vary based on how many jalapeños you add. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will work well; just ensure they are ripe and blend them into a sauce-like consistency if needed.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Texas Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it with dumplings or topped with cheese, this recipe is sure to impress!