Smoky Texas Chili

Make Smoky Texas Chili. This recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for game day or the holidays. Its smoky flavor combined with tender beef and hearty ingredients makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Smoky Flavor: The smoked beef chuck roast infuses this chili with a deep, savory taste that sets it apart.
• Hearty and Filling: With generous portions of meat and dumplings, this chili is satisfying enough to serve as a main course.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party, Smoky Texas Chili is sure to impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and hands-off cooking make this recipe approachable for cooks of all levels.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed to make this delicious Smoky Texas Chili.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: This tool is crucial for achieving that authentic smoky flavor in the beef chuck roast.
• Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering chili evenly and retaining heat during cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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 the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat to 250°F.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Season trimmed Chuck Roast generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Smoke the Roast

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

Step 4: Wrap During Smoking

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

Step 5: Finish Smoking

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

Step 6: Rest the Meat

Let rest in butcher paper for at least 1 hour. Slice the roast into cubes right before adding to the chili.

Step 7: Sauté Vegetables

In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over MEDIUM-HIGH heat. Add chopped onion and sprinkle 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

Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and garlic powder stirring frequently for about a minute allowing spices to bloom but not burn.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

Add cubed smoked Chuck Roast and poblano peppers to the pot. Stir in beef stock and tomatoes to deglaze the bottom of the pot.

Step 10: Season Further

Add oregano, beef base, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 11: Simmer Chili

Bring chili to a boil then turn stove to LOW heat and simmer covered for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 12: Prepare Dumpling Batter

While chili is cooking, mix together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar for cheddar jalapeño dumplings.

Step 13: Combine Dumpling Ingredients

Add eggs folding gently to combine. Stir buttermilk into mixture until combined.

Step 14: Fold in Cheese & Jalapeños

Fold in cheese and jalapeños being sure not to overmix the batter.

Step 15: Cook Dumplings

Place dollops of dumpling batter (about 1–2 oz.) into the chili. Continue to simmer covered for another 20 minutes or until dumplings are firm but fluffy.

Step 16: Serve

Serve chili in bowls garnished with shredded cheese, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

How to Serve Smoky Texas Chili

Serving Smoky Texas Chili can elevate your meal experience, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this robust dish.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Shredded cheese: Add shredded sharp cheddar for a creamy, rich flavor.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds coolness and balances the spice.
• Chopped scallions: Fresh scallions provide a crisp texture and mild onion flavor.
• Cilantro leaves: Sprinkle fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Pair with Bread

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side; its sweetness complements the chili.
• Crusty baguette: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up chili.

Create a Chili Bar

• Toppings station: Set up toppings like jalapeños, diced avocado, and tortilla chips for guests to customize their bowls.
• Accompaniments: Offer sides like pickled onions or hot sauce to add extra flavor.

How to Perfect Smoky Texas Chili

For an unforgettable Smoky Texas Chili, consider these tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use quality meat: Choose a well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and flavor.
• Smoke the meat properly: Ensure the roast reaches the right internal temperature during smoking for optimal smokiness.
• Bloom spices correctly: Sauté spices briefly before adding liquids to release their full aroma and depth.
• Allow time for flavors to meld: Simmering the chili longer enhances its flavors; patience pays off!
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste frequently and adjust salt and spices in small increments for balance.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Texas Chili

Pairing side dishes with Smoky Texas Chili can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic choice, providing a soft texture that pairs well with spicy chili.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a cool contrast to the heat of the chili.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into your bowl of chili or topping it off.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the hearty chili.
5. Rice: Fluffy rice serves as a great base, soaking up all the delicious juices from the chili.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add a smoky flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the chili’s profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoky Texas Chili, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning your meat and vegetables enough can lead to bland chili. Make sure to season each layer of your dish generously with salt and spices.

• Bold overcooking: Allowing the chili to simmer for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time and ensure you check for the right consistency.

• Bold skipping the smoke: If you’re using smoked chuck roast, don’t skip the smoking process! It adds depth and flavor that is essential for authentic Smoky Texas Chili.

• Bold ignoring freshness: Using stale spices can dull your chili’s flavor. Always check the freshness of your spices and replace them regularly for optimal taste.

• Bold overcrowding ingredients: Adding too many ingredients at once can complicate flavor profiles. Stick to the recipe ratios for a well-balanced dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Smoky Texas Chili in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Smoky Texas Chili

• For longer storage, freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Smoky Texas Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Smoky Texas Chili, we’ve got you covered!

What makes Smoky Texas Chili different?

Smoky Texas Chili stands out due to its rich smokiness from smoked chuck roast and bold spices that create a deep flavor profile unique to Texan cuisine.

Can I customize my Smoky Texas Chili?

Absolutely! You can adjust spice levels or add beans if you prefer. Vegetables like zucchini or corn can also add extra texture and nutrition.

How do I thicken my Smoky Texas Chili?

To thicken your chili, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer or add masa harina mixed with water. This will give it a nice texture without compromising flavor.

Is Smoky Texas Chili spicy?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder and jalapeño you use. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce these ingredients or choose milder peppers.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Texas Chili is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any gathering. Its rich flavors make it perfect for game days or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize this dish with your favorite ingredients to make it truly yours!