This Brisket Chili is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with juicy brisket, beans, and a hint of spices that will make you smile.
You won’t believe how good this chili smells while cooking! Topping it with cheese and sour cream is my favorite part—they’re like the cherry on top of a spicy sundae! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish! It becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. If brisket isn’t available, try chuck roast or beef stew meat. They also shred nicely!
Beans: Black beans add texture and protein. If you prefer, pinto beans or kidney beans can be great substitutes. Canned beans save time—just be sure to rinse them!
Chili Powder: This gives the chili its signature flavor. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, a chipotle chili powder works well. Don’t have chili powder? Combine paprika and cayenne for a similar effect!
Vegetables: Onion, bell pepper, and garlic bring tons of flavor. Feel free to swap the bell pepper with green or yellow. Adding jalapeños can also give your chili an extra kick!
How Do I Ensure My Chili Has the Best Flavor?
The key to a flavorful chili starts with browning the brisket. This step adds depth and richness. Just remember to not rush it—give it time to get a nice sear!
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the brisket. You want it to sizzle!
- When cooking the vegetables, keep stirring to avoid burning. Sauté until they are soft—that’s where the flavor develops.
- If possible, let your chili sit after cooking. It often tastes better the next day as flavors meld.
With these tips, your Brisket Chili should be nothing less than delicious! Enjoy your cozy meal!
How to Make Delicious Brisket Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef brisket, trimmed and cut into large chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
For The Chili:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Brisket Chili will take about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 2 to 3 hours to cook, allowing the brisket to become tender and flavorful. Plan for a cozy evening as the wonderful aroma fills your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Brisket:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the brisket chunks. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, then remove the meat and set it aside. This browning step is essential for adding wonderful flavors!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they soften. You’ll notice how great they smell!
3. Flavoring the Chili:
Return the browned brisket to the pot. Now, sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want extra heat), oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Give it a good stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant, making your kitchen smell fantastic!
4. Adding the Rest:
Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmering the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking will make the brisket tender and allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Shredding the Brisket:
Once the brisket is tender, carefully remove the pieces from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded brisket to the pot and stir it in. Let it simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the chili up.
7. Serving:
Serve your hearty Brisket Chili hot. It’s perfect with a dollop of sour cream on top and some fresh cilantro sprinkled over it for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of chili!
This cozy Brisket Chili is thick, hearty, and bursting with smoky, spicy flavors—perfect for a comforting meal any day!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Chili?
Absolutely! While brisket is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use chuck roast or beef stew meat. Just ensure it’s cooked low and slow to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. You can also use a hotter chili powder for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes! Brisket Chili is great for meal prep. You can cook it a day in advance and refrigerate. The flavors will deepen overnight. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.