Chili Colorado Recipe
A rich and flavorful beef chili from the Southwest, featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a smoky red chili sauce. This dish is perfect for spice lovers craving authentic Mexican comfort food with deep, bold flavors.
Ingredients List
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 dried New Mexico or guajillo chilies, seeds removed and soaked
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Remove soaked chilies from water and blend with a little soaking water until smooth to make chili sauce.
Step 2: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown beef cubes in batches and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
Step 4: Add chili sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Return beef to the pot and add beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
Step 6: Stir in apple cider vinegar before serving for a tangy finish.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings
Serves 6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 450
Carbs: 12g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 25g
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with warm tortillas, rice, or refried beans.
Top with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Seasonal Relevance
Ideal for fall and winter meals due to its warming spices and hearty texture.
Conclusion
Chili Colorado offers a delicious and authentic taste of Southwestern cuisine, with tender beef bathed in a smoky chili sauce. It’s a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors and slow-cooked comfort food.
Chili Colorado Recipe
Course: Uncategorized6
servings20
minutes2
hours450
kcalChili Colorado is a hearty Southwest dish featuring tender beef cubes simmered in a rich, smoky red chili sauce. This flavorful and comforting chili is perfect for spice lovers seeking an authentic Mexican meal with deep, robust flavors.
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 dried New Mexico or guajillo chilies, seeds removed and soaked
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Directions
- Remove soaked chilies from water and blend with a little soaking water until smooth to make chili sauce.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown beef cubes in batches and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add chili sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Return beef to the pot and add beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar before serving for a tangy finish.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use beef chuck for tender, juicy meat
Substitute dried chilies with ancho or pasilla if needed
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness
Pairs well with warm tortillas, rice, or refried beans
Freezes well for up to 3 months
FAQs
Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of beef chuck?
Yes, but the texture will be different; cubed beef offers more tenderness and flavor.
Q2: What if I can’t find New Mexico or guajillo chilies?
Substitute with ancho or pasilla chilies for a similar smoky flavor.
Q3: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions first, then cook all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours.
