Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili

Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili Recipe

Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of hearty and flavorful Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili! This comforting dish combines tender beef stew meat with a medley of beans, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, slow-cooked to perfection for a rich and satisfying meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on game day or simply craving a warm and comforting dinner, this chili recipe is sure to hit the spot. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the magic of slow cooking and the irresistible flavors of homemade chili.

Ingredients

Meat

  • 3/4 lb Beef stew meat

Produce

  • 1 (16 ounce) can Black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 Small green or red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (16 ounce) can Kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 Large onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 (28 ounce) can Tomatoes, diced

Canned Goods

  • 1 3/4 cups Beef broth

Condiments

  • 2 tbsp Barbecue sauce

Baking & Spices

  • 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Chili powder
  • 3/4 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

  • 1 1/2 tbsp Vegetable oil

Nuts & Seeds

  • 1 tsp Ground cumin

Instructions

  1. Prepare Stew Meat: In a large bowl, toss the beef stew meat with the all-purpose flour until evenly coated. This will help thicken the chili as it cooks.
  2. Sear Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the seared meat to the slow cooker.
  3. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, drained and rinsed black beans, drained and rinsed kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chopped parsley, beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and ground cumin. Stir until well combined.
  4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  5. Serve: Once the chili is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and hot sauce to suit your taste preferences. For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
  • Beans: Feel free to customize the types of beans used in this chili. Pinto beans, navy beans, or cannellini beans can be substituted for the black and kidney beans.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef stew meat and substitute with additional beans or diced vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, and zucchini for a vegetarian version of this chili.

Keto and Low Carb Versions

Keto Version

To make this Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili keto-friendly, omit the beans and reduce the amount of barbecue sauce or use a sugar-free barbecue sauce. Increase the amount of beef stew meat and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to bulk up the chili. Serve with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Low Carb Version

For a low carb version, reduce the amount of beans used or substitute them with low carb alternatives such as black soybeans or chickpeas. Use a low carb thickener such as xanthan gum or guar gum instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the chili. Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce or skip it altogether to further reduce the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this chili?

While beef stew meat works well in this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast, brisket, or even ground beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut of beef you choose.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What can I serve with this chili?

This chili pairs well with a variety of toppings and side dishes such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped green onions, cornbread, or tortilla chips. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

4. How can I thicken the chili without flour?

If you prefer not to use flour as a thickener, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or blend a portion of the chili with an immersion blender to achieve a thicker consistency. Alternatively, simmer the chili uncovered for longer to allow the liquid to reduce and thicken naturally.

5. Can I make this chili on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chili on the stovetop. Follow steps 1 and 2 as directed, then transfer the seared meat and remaining ingredients to a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have developed.

In conclusion, our Slow-Cooked Stew Meat Chili is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly days and cozy nights at home. With its tender beef, hearty beans, and aromatic spices, this chili is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead, this easy and flavorful recipe is a must-try. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade chili that’s packed with flavor and love!