Colorado beef Green Chili

If you’re looking for a hearty dish to warm your soul, let me introduce you to my favorite Colorado beef Green Chili. This recipe is a beloved classic made famous in Pueblo, Colorado, and it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of tender beef and spicy green chiles creates a comforting bowl of goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Plus, it’s a fantastic topping for burgers, making it versatile for any occasion.

What makes this Colorado beef Green Chili truly special is its robust flavor and the joy it brings to the table. Whether you’re enjoying a busy weeknight meal or hosting a weekend get-together, this chili fits right in. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious chili without any fuss.
• Family favorite: The rich flavors and meaty texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this tasty Colorado beef Green Chili, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Beef

• 2 pounds beef shoulder (cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion)
• 1/4 cup seeded and chopped jalapenos (about 2 jalapenos)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 6 cans diced green chiles (4.5 ounces each)
• 15 ounces petite diced tomatoes
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Variations

One of the beautiful things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some coconut milk at the end for a rich and creamy twist.

How to Make Colorado beef Green Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Sprinkle the diced beef shoulder with salt and pepper. Then add the beef to a large stock pot or Dutch oven and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. This browning process takes about 10 minutes and is crucial because it locks in those delicious juices and enhances the flavor of your chili.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Carefully pour off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from cooking. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onions and jalapeños. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften. This step builds layers of flavor that will elevate your chili.

Step 3: Mix in Aromatics

Next, stir in chopped cilantro, minced garlic, and flour. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently until everything is combined well. This helps absorb excess moisture while giving your chili that nice thickness we all love.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the browned beef back into the pot along with all remaining ingredients: diced green chiles, tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Bring it all to a simmer before reducing heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer for about an hour until that beef becomes tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the lid after an hour and let your chili simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes. This allows it to thicken up beautifully; feel free to stir occasionally as it cooks down to your desired consistency.

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Colorado beef Green Chili! Serve with crusty bread or over rice for an amazing meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Colorado Beef Green Chili

Making Colorado beef green chili can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Using beef shoulder ensures that the meat becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks slowly. This cut is perfect for stews and chilis, absorbing all the spices beautifully.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Taking the time to brown the beef properly adds depth and richness to your chili. The caramelization creates a richer flavor profile that makes your dish irresistible.
• Adjust the Heat to Your Preference: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeños or cayenne pepper according to your spice tolerance. Remember, you can always add more heat later but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in!
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer enhances the flavors as they meld together. If you have time, let it cook on low for an extra 30 minutes after adding all ingredients for even better results!
• Taste and Adjust Seasonings: After cooking, taste your chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Sometimes a little extra salt or a splash of lime juice can brighten up the flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Colorado Beef Green Chili

Colorado beef green chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Presenting this hearty dish with thoughtful garnishes and sides will surely impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness that complements the spice.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances out the heat wonderfully.
• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, like Monterey Jack or cheddar, can add an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is sweet and buttery, providing a nice contrast to the spicy chili.
• Rice: Serve with fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up all those delicious juices; it makes for a filling meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into the chili or enjoying on their own as a fun side.
• Grilled Veggies: Lightly grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers offer a colorful, healthy complement that balances out the heartiness of the chili.

Enjoy creating this comforting Colorado beef green chili – it’s sure to warm both your heart and your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Colorado beef Green Chili is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later use. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
• For quicker thawing, freeze in smaller portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Colorado beef Green Chili that you might find helpful!

Can I use other meats in Colorado beef Green Chili?

Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for beef shoulder, you can substitute with chicken or turkey if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for tender results.

What makes Colorado beef Green Chili different from other chili recipes?

Colorado beef Green Chili typically features green chiles as a prominent ingredient, giving it a unique spicy and flavorful profile compared to traditional red chili recipes. It’s also heartier due to the generous amount of beef.

How long does homemade Colorado beef Green Chili last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade Colorado beef Green Chili will stay fresh for about 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I make Colorado beef Green Chili spicier?

Definitely! If you love heat, consider adding more jalapenos or even some diced serrano peppers when cooking. You can also increase the cayenne pepper slightly to enhance the spice level.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Colorado beef Green Chili as I am! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal, whether enjoyed on its own or as a topping. Enjoy every delicious bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!