Get ready to experience the ultimate taste of Texas with the legendary Texas State Fair Chili - a mouthwatering dish that'll transport your taste buds straight to the Lone Star State! This isn't just another chili recipe; it's a culinary journey that captures the heart and soul of authentic Texan cooking. Whether you're a chili enthusiast or a curious food lover, this recipe promises to deliver a bold, hearty meal that'll have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Texan
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring you have a clean workspace. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Next, add the 2 pounds of ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Cook the beef until it is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the pot. This will help keep the chili from becoming greasy.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the spices evenly coat the meat and vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
- Add the two cans of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and 1 cup of beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can always adjust the seasoning later, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about
- 5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- After the simmering time, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the chili is too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the chili is ready, remove it from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.
- Serve the Texas State Fair Chili hot, garnished with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped onions, or sour cream. Enjoy!
Tips
- Choose high-quality ground beef with a good fat content (80/20) for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Toast your spices before adding liquid to enhance their depth and complexity.
- Low and slow is the key - allow the chili to simmer gently to develop rich, intense flavors.
- For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a small amount of dark chocolate or a splash of coffee.
- Let the chili rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully meld together.
- Don't rush the cooking process; patience is crucial in creating an authentic Texas-style chili.
- If possible, make the chili a day ahead, as the flavors continue to develop overnight in the refrigerator.
- Avoid adding beans if you want to stay true to traditional Texas chili competition rules!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
