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 dish is perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners. With its unique blend of Korean flavors intertwined with traditional chili elements, this recipe will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of gochujang and chipotle peppers creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice or top it with cheese and onions for a personalized touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal planning.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With enough servings for 10-12 people, it’s perfect for large gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Korean Chile Con Carne, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or deep pot: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot and scraping up tasty bits from the bottom.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons beef tallow, or neutral oil
• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 cubes
• kosher salt
• fresh ground black pepper

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 2 jalapeños, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely diced

Spices and Sauces

• 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 and Broth

• 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup dark beef broth

Korean Ingredients

• 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 and pepper.
1. Sear the meat on all sides until browned; do this in batches if necessary.
2. Transfer browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk together gochujang and beef broth until fully mixed.
1. Pour this mixture into the pot along with fire-roasted tomatoes (including juices).
2. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits stuck on the bottom of the pot.
3. Return seared meat to the pot and bring everything to a simmer for about 2-3 hours until meat is tender.

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

Add in gochugaru (chile flakes) during cooking if you prefer extra heat.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in chopped cilantro at the end. Serve with white rice and toppings such as cheddar cheese and diced onions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and toppings, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory sauce and balances the heat.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness and tropical flair, perfect for countering the spiciness.

With Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully over the hot chili, adding a creamy texture.
• Diced Green Onions: Freshness and crunch that brighten each bite.

In a Bowl

• Chili Bowl: Serve it in a deep bowl for a cozy presentation, garnished with cilantro for added freshness.
• Chili Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with the chili, cheese, and toppings for a fun appetizer or snack.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

Making an exceptional Korean Chile Con Carne requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for well-marbled beef chuck roast; the fat will render down and add flavor during cooking.
• Sear Well: Take your time when browning the meat. A good sear develops rich flavors in the final dish.
• Balance Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning and sweetness to suit your palate before serving.
• Control Heat Levels: Add gochugaru gradually to manage spice levels according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking enhances flavor development before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Pairing your Korean Chile Con Carne with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the spicy chili.
2. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocados tossed with lime juice and herbs create a refreshing side.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled until charred bring a smoky flavor that complements the dish.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side option.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add brightness and cut through the richness of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Chile Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook certain steps that can enhance the flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Ignoring seasoning levels: Not seasoning the meat before searing can lead to bland chili. Always season generously with salt and pepper.
• Overcrowding the pot: If you add too much meat at once, it won’t brown properly. Sear in batches for better flavor.
• Skipping simmer time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Allow sufficient simmering time for tender beef.
• Neglecting balance of heat: Adding too many spicy ingredients without balancing them with sweetness can overwhelm flavors. Use brown sugar wisely to enhance complexity.
• Not scraping up fond: Failing to scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot misses out on rich flavors. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze while adding liquids.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean Chile Con Carne in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Freeze portions in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, adding a splash of beef broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean Chile Con Carne:

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne unique?

Korean Chile Con Carne blends traditional Texan chili flavors with Korean spice elements, creating a unique fusion dish.

Can I make Korean Chile Con Carne ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better when made ahead as the flavors develop over time. Just store it properly!

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can reduce or increase gochujang and gochugaru based on your heat preference. Start with less and taste as you go.

What side dishes pair well with Korean Chile Con Carne?

Serving it with white rice is great, but you can also try cornbread or a fresh salad for balance.

Final Thoughts

Korean Chile Con Carne is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings bold flavors together in harmony. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences—add more vegetables or experiment with different spices! Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe that will impress your family and friends at your next gathering.