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 cozy gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress your family and friends with its unique blend of Korean spices and classic chili elements.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates a depth of flavor that excites your palate.
• Comforting Dish: This hearty chili warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal comfort food.
• Easily Scalable: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd; simply adjust the ingredients for larger servings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or topped with cheese and onions for a customized experience.
• Spicy Kick: With jalapeños and gochugaru, this recipe delivers a satisfying heat without overwhelming your taste buds.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Korean Chile Con Carne, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef to achieve tender meat while allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot and scraping up those flavorful bits stuck at the bottom.

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.

Main 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

Seasonings & Additions

• 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 preferred 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 Meat

Use a Dutch oven or deep pot. Heat the fat over high heat. Lightly season the meat with salt & pepper. Sear the meat all over until browned. You will probably need to do this in batches. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate lined with paper towel.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk together gochujang and beef broth until fully incorporated. Add this mixture into the pot along with additional beef broth and fire-roasted tomatoes (with juices). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the seared meat back into the pot and bring everything to a simmer for about 2–3 hours until tender. Cover while cooking for a thinner consistency; leave uncovered if you prefer it thicker.

Step 4: Adjust Heat (Optional)

If you desire extra heat during cooking, stir in gochugaru (Korean chile flakes) for an added kick.

Step 5: Serve

Stir in chopped cilantro at the end. I recommend serving with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced white or green onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Serving Korean Chile Con Carne can be a delightful experience. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors and spiciness.

With Rice

• White rice: A classic option that balances the heat of the chili.
• Brown rice: Adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber for a healthier twist.

Toppings

• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess to each bite.
• Diced onions: Fresh white or green onions provide a crisp contrast.
• Chopped cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color.

In Tacos

• Corn tortillas: Warmed tortillas filled with chili create a fun and portable meal.
• Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

To elevate your Korean Chile Con Carne, consider these helpful tips for maximum flavor and tenderness.

• Choose quality beef: Opt for well-marbled chuck roast for juicy and tender results.
• Sear the meat properly: Browning enhances flavor through caramelization; don’t skip this step.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize heat by adding more or less gochujang and gochugaru to suit your taste.
• Let it simmer longer: Cooking for an extended period helps break down the meat, making it more tender.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the chili to rest lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Korean Chile Con Carne can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, cornbread complements the spicy chili perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and balances the heat of the dish.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides a cool contrast to the spicy flavors.
4. Pickled vegetables: Tangy pickles or kimchi add acidity and brightness alongside the chili.
5. Grilled vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini can be charred for added flavor.
6. Potato salad: Creamy potato salad can help tone down the spice while adding heartiness.
7. Baked beans: Sweet and savory beans make a comforting side that pairs well with chili.
8. Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up chili, adding texture to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chile Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Incorrect seasoning: Many people forget to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout cooking. Always taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Aim for a tender texture by simmering just until it’s fork-tender.
• Skipping the browning step: Searing the meat adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step; it enhances the entire dish.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient broth can lead to a dry chili. Make sure your mixture is well-hydrated for a rich, saucy consistency.
• Ignoring heat levels: Some may be cautious with spices. Adjust the amount of gochujang and gochugaru according to your heat preference for optimal flavor.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like cheese and onions elevate your dish. Don’t forget to add them for extra texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion while freezing.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean Chile Con Carne that may help you perfect your dish.

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne unique?

Korean Chile Con Carne combines traditional chili flavors with spicy Korean ingredients like gochujang and gochugaru, creating a unique fusion dish.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! While beef is traditional, you can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter protein option.

How can I adjust the spice level in Korean Chile Con Carne?

You can adjust spice levels by varying the amount of gochujang and gochugaru added. Start with less if you’re sensitive to spice and increase gradually.

What should I serve with Korean Chile Con Carne?

This dish pairs well with white rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips. Toppings like cheese, cilantro, and diced onions enhance its flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Korean Chile Con Carne?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing room for customization based on personal preferences. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try today!