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 combines the best of Korean and Texan culinary traditions, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or a hearty family meal. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving a comforting bowl of chili, this dish delivers unique flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Fusion: Experience the perfect blend of Korean spices and traditional chili ingredients that elevate this dish beyond ordinary chili.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves 10-12 people, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Easy Cooking Process: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can create a complex dish without a hassle.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by adding more gochugaru or chipotle peppers to suit your taste preferences.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This hearty meal is not only filling but also provides warmth on chilly nights.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Korean Chile Con Carne, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or deep pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution and is perfect for slow-cooking meats until tender.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precision when chopping vegetables and meat, making prep faster and safer.

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

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

For Vegetables & Spices

• 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
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked salt

For the Sauce

• 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 cup Negro Modelo, or preferred dark beer
• 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. Sear the meat all over; you may need to do this in batches. Transfer the browned meat to a plate lined with paper towels.

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. Add in minced garlic, chopped chipotle, adobo sauce, cumin, coriander, smoked salt, and brown sugar. Continue to stir frequently to incorporate all the spices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Add Extra Heat (Optional)

If you like more spice, add in gochugaru (chile flakes) while it cooks for an extra kick.

Step 5: Serve

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

How to Serve Korean Chile Con Carne

Korean Chile Con Carne is a flavorful dish that can be served in several delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With White Rice

• Pairing your chili with fluffy white rice creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rice absorbs the spicy sauce and complements the beef beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Adding shredded cheddar cheese on top of your hot chili not only enhances its flavor but also adds a creamy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the heat.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions over your chili for a burst of freshness. This garnish adds color and enhances the overall taste profile of the dish.

Served with Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chili. They add an enjoyable crunch and can serve as a great vehicle for all those wonderful flavors.

Accompanied by Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can help cool down the heat from the chili while adding richness. It’s a classic companion that brings everything together.

How to Perfect Korean Chile Con Carne

Perfecting Korean Chile Con Carne involves attention to detail and a few simple tips. Here are some ways to enhance this delightful dish:

• Choose Quality Meat – Using high-quality beef chuck roast will make your chili more tender and flavorful. Look for well-marbled cuts for the best results.

• Sear the Meat Well – Don’t rush this step! Browning the meat enhances its flavor through caramelization, creating depth in your chili.

• Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to tweak the amount of gochujang and gochugaru based on your heat preference. Start small and add more if you enjoy extra spice!

• Let it Simmer – Allowing your chili to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!

• Taste Before Serving – Always sample your chili before serving. Adjust seasoning as necessary, adding salt or sugar to balance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Chile Con Carne

Complementing your Korean Chile Con Carne with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread – This sweet, buttery bread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.

2. Coleslaw – A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the beefy chili.

3. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled cucumbers or radishes provide a refreshing bite that cuts through the heat.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn brings summer vibes to your table and complements the savory notes of chili.

5. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as another hearty base for the chili, allowing guests to customize their servings.

6. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into leftover sauce from your bowl of chili, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

7. Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices add richness and help temper the spice levels in each bite.

8. Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad features grilled corn mixed with lime, cilantro, and cheese, making it an exciting side option next to your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Korean Chile Con Carne can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish’s flavor and texture.

• Neglecting to season the meat – Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Always season the beef cubes with salt and pepper before searing to enhance their taste.
• Overcooking or undercooking – Ensure you simmer the chili long enough for the meat to become tender. Cooking it for 2-3 hours helps develop rich flavors.
• Skipping the browning step – Browning the meat adds depth to your chili’s flavor. Don’t rush this step; take your time to achieve a nice sear.
• Ignoring spice balance – The right balance of heat is key. Adjust the amount of gochugaru and jalapeños based on your heat preference for a perfectly spicy dish.
• Using low-quality canned tomatoes – Fire-roasted tomatoes add a layer of flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for better taste.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Korean Chile Con Carne can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Korean Chile Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Korean Chile Con Carne

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Korean Chile Con Carne.

What makes Korean Chile Con Carne different from traditional chili?

Korean Chile Con Carne incorporates gochujang and gochugaru, which give it a unique spicy-sweet flavor profile that distinguishes it from traditional Texas-style chili.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef, pork, or even turkey if you prefer a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is Korean Chile Con Carne spicy?

The spiciness depends on how much gochugaru and jalapeños you use. Adjust these ingredients based on your heat tolerance.

How can I customize my Korean Chile Con Carne?

Feel free to add beans, corn, or even different vegetables depending on your preference. Toppings like cilantro or cheese also personalize each serving!

Final Thoughts

This flavorful Korean Chile Con Carne is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Its layers of heat and savory ingredients make it versatile enough to suit various tastes. Customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting the spice level to create your ideal bowl of comfort!