Best Ancho Beef And Bulgur Chili Recipes

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BEEF CHILI WITH ANCHO, RED BEANS AND CHOCOLATE



Beef Chili With Ancho, Red Beans and Chocolate image

I made this from Tyler Florence's Real Kitchen book. It was AMAZING! I just had to share with you all! I made some ingredient substitutions in mine that may make it easier for you too. Enjoy!

Provided by InMemoryofBrats

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 4h

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 21

2 ancho chilies, seeded and hand torn into pieces (I used powdered because we couldn't find them in the store) or 2 tablespoons dried ancho chile powder (I used powdered because we couldn't find them in the store)
3 lbs beef shoulder (I used a black angus london broil)
sea salt (I used kosher) or kosher salt (I used kosher)
fresh ground black pepper
2 onions, diced (I used one very large Vidalia)
10 garlic cloves, halved
3 canned chipotle chiles in adobo, chopped (I used Louisiana Chipotle sauce since we did not have the peppers in adobo) or 2 ounces louisiana hot sauce (I used Louisiana Chipotle sauce since we did not have the peppers in adobo)
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons coriander
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon sugar
1 (28 ounce) can whole canned tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 (15 1/2 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon unsweetened chocolate
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (to garnish)

Steps:

  • Toast the ancho chile pieces over low heat in a dry skillet until fragrant, shaking the pan so they don't scorch.
  • Put the chiles in a food processor and pulse until they are powder.
  • Cut the beef into large and season with salt and pepper.
  • Put beef in large soup pot and add enough water to cover by one inch.
  • Place over medium heat and bring to a boil.
  • Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  • Mix in onions, garlic, chipotles, and jalapeño.
  • Stir in the chili powder, coriander, cumin, paprika, oregano, sugar, cinnamon, and powdered ancho chilies.
  • Pour the entire can of tomatoes into a bowl and crush by hand until chunky.
  • Add tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot.
  • Simmer for 2 hours.
  • As it cooks down you can add more water if necessary (we didn't need to but you may).
  • When done, take a wooden spoon and beat chili vigorously so that meat comes apart in shreds.
  • (I used two forks like I do with pulled pork).
  • Stir in beans and corn meal.
  • Cover only partially (so the chili doesn't get watery).
  • Simmer for one hour stirring occasionally In the last 5 minutes, stir in the chocolate.
  • Before serving, garnish with cheddar.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 586, Fat 26.9, SaturatedFat 13.2, Cholesterol 139.8, Sodium 873.8, Carbohydrate 33, Fiber 8.8, Sugar 7.4, Protein 54

BEEF CHILI WITH ANCHO, RED BEANS, AND CHOCOLATE



Beef Chili with Ancho, Red Beans, and Chocolate image

This recipe is a hybrid from different schools of thought. The texture is that of shredded beef, which is authentic Texan, but the flavor is the American Southwest. The dried chilies and the chocolate give this dish an amazing rich, smoky depth. If you're a purist and think adding beans is a sacrilege, leave them out, but they do work really well here. This is truly one of the best dishes I've ever made.

Yield serves 6 to 12, makes 3 quarts

Number Of Ingredients 21

2 ancho chiles, seeded and hand-torn into pieces
3 pounds beef shoulder, cut into large cubes
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 onions, diced
10 garlic cloves, halved
3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons ground coriander
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon sugar
1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 (15 1/2-ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 tablespoon grated unsweetened chocolate
3 cups shredded white Cheddar cheese, for garnish
16 Saltine crackers, for garnish

Steps:

  • Making chili is nothing more than mounting layers of flavor and letting them all simmer together. Get in the habit of tasting recipes in stages; this way if something is not quite right, adjustments can be made on the spot.
  • Toast the ancho chile pieces over low heat in a dry skillet until fragrant, shaking the pan so they don't scorch. Put the chilies in a mini food processor and pulse to a powder. This homemade chile powder will add a smoky depth to the chili. Season the beef shoulder all over with salt and pepper and then put it in a large soup pot. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch, about 3 quarts, and place over medium heat. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Mix in the onions, garlic, chipotles, and jalapeño. Stir in the chili powder, coriander, cumin, paprika, oregano, cinnamon, sugar, and the powdered ancho chilies. Pour the entire can of tomatoes with their liquid into a bowl and hand-crush until chunky; add it to the pot along with the tomato paste. Simmer until the meat is fork-tender and comes apart with no resistance, about 2 hours. As it cooks down, add more water if necessary. When done, take a wooden spoon and beat the chili vigorously so the meat comes apart in shreds.
  • Add the next layer of flavor by stirring in the beans and cornmeal. Season with salt and pepper and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Cover the pot only partially so the steam doesn't get trapped under the lid and drip down into the chili, making it watery. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the grated chocolate. Garnish each serving with the shredded Cheddar cheese and Saltine crackers.

Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili Recipe: A Hearty, Nutritious and Flavorful Dish

The Origins of Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili
Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a traditional Tex-Mex dish that gained popularity in the southwestern United States. The recipe is known for its rich and deep flavor profile, hearty texture, and use of ancho chilies. Ancho chilies are medium to large-sized peppers that are dried and ground into a spice. They are commonly used in Mexican cuisine to add smokiness, sweetness, and mild heat to dishes. Bulgur, on the other hand, is a nutritious grain that is popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean culinary traditions. It is made from cracked wheat that is cooked and dried.
Health Benefits of Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili
Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a nutrient-dense dish that is packed with healthy ingredients. The dish is high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Beef is a rich source of high-quality protein, iron, and zinc, while bulgur is an excellent source of fiber, B-complex vitamins, and antioxidants. Moreover, ancho chilies have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the body against chronic diseases. They are also a rich source of vitamins A and C, which support healthy vision and immune function.
The Flavor Profile of Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili
Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is seasoned with a unique blend of herbs and spices. The dish is known for its depth of flavor, which is achieved by slow-cooking the beef and allowing the ancho chilies to infuse their smokiness and sweetness. Common spices used in the recipe include cumin, coriander, oregano, and smoked paprika. These spices add layers of complexity to the dish, while the bulgur provides a pleasant chewiness.
Options for Enjoying Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili
Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. The dish can be served as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish accompanying rice, bread, or cornbread. If you want to add more freshness to your dish, you can garnish your ancho beef and bulgur chili with chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, diced onions or shredded cheese. You can also make it more spicy by adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Tips for Making Ancho Beef and Bulgur Chili
Here are a few essential tips to help you make the perfect ancho beef and bulgur chili: - Choose high-quality beef: Opt for lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or round, to save on calories and fat. Be sure to remove any excess fat before cooking. - Soak your ancho chilies: Before using the ancho chilies, soak them in hot water for at least 20 minutes to soften them and remove any dirt or debris. - Experiment with seasonings: This is a versatile dish, so try adding different spices, herbs, or vegetables to make it your own. For example, you can add chopped bell peppers, celery, or carrots to increase the nutrient density of the dish. - Cook on low heat: To allow the flavors to develop fully, cook your ancho beef and bulgur chili over low heat for at least one hour. This will also make the meat more tender. - Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge in an airtight container to ensure freshness.
Conclusion
Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a nutritious, flavorful and hearty dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This recipe offers a tasty way to incorporate quality protein, whole grains, and antioxidant-rich ingredients into your diet. By following the tips provided above and experimenting with different ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a unique and delicious ancho beef and bulgur chili that satisfies your taste buds and nourishes your body.

When it comes to making a delicious and hearty chili, the combination of ancho beef and bulgur is a perfect match. The chili is packed with flavor and protein, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind when making ancho beef and bulgur chili recipes.

Tip 1: Use high-quality beef

The success of your ancho beef and bulgur chili recipe relies heavily on the quality of beef you use. Choosing beef with a higher fat content will add more flavor and tenderness to the dish. Look for cuts like chuck or brisket, which are ideal for slow cooking and breaking down the meat for a deliciously tender chili.

Tip 2: Soak the ancho chilies

Ancho chilies are a staple ingredient in any chili recipe. They provide depth and smokiness to the dish. Before using them, you must remove the seeds and stems and soak them in water for about 20 minutes. Soaking the ancho chilies helps to soften them, making them easier to blend into the chili. It also helps to release the rich flavors and aroma of the chili into your dish.

Tip 3: Utilize aromatics

Using aromatics like onions, garlic, and bell peppers can add a lot of depth and flavor to the chili. They provide a solid base of flavor for other ingredients to build upon. Sautéing the aromatics first before adding other ingredients can help to develop a deeper and richer taste in your chili.

Tip 4: Don’t skimp on spices

Chili is all about the right set of spices. Using a blend of cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano gives your chili the perfect balance of flavor and heat. The combination of these spices will enhance the richness of the ancho beef and bulgur, resulting in a hearty chili that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Tip 5: Add in vegetables

Adding vegetables like carrots, corn, and celery can provide more texture and flavor to the dish. Butternut squash, zucchini, and sweet potatoes are also great options that add a bit of sweetness to balance out the heat from the spices. Veggies are also a great addition to make this recipe even more nutritious and filling.

Tip 6: Elevate with toppings

Adding toppings to your ancho beef and bulgur chili can take your dish to the next level. Toppings like sour cream, avocado, shredded cheese, and cilantro are great options to bring extra texture and creaminess to the dish. Adding a squeeze of lime juice on top can also add a lovely tang that brightens up the flavors in the chili.

Tip 7: Let it simmer

The key to making a delicious chili is to let it simmer for a while. Slow cooking on low heat can break down the meat and develop rich and complex flavors in the dish. It also allows the flavors to meld together and gives the spices time to blend in with the other ingredients. Simmer the chili for at least an hour or two, or even longer if you have the time.

Conclusion

Ancho beef and bulgur chili is a satisfying and delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. With these valuable tips, you can make a delicious chili packed with protein and flavor. Using high-quality beef, soaking the ancho chilies, and adding in vegetables and toppings can elevate the dish to a whole new level. So give it a try and enjoy one of the most comforting and tasty dishes there is.

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