Growing up, my culinary education unfolded under the watchful eye and skillful guidance of my father. Among the myriad of lessons imparted upon me, one particular treasure trove of knowledge stemmed from his expertise in the kitchen. A culinary virtuoso in his own right, my father had a knack for conjuring up culinary delights that left an indelible mark on the taste buds and hearts of all who were fortunate enough to savor his creations.
One such masterpiece that held a special place in our family’s culinary repertoire was his legendary, award-winning chili. I can still vividly recall the pride that beamed from his eyes as he proudly showcased the blue ribbon adorning his masterpiece, a testament to its unrivaled excellence. The recipe, meticulously crafted over years of trial and triumph, held a place of honor in our kitchen, framed and revered as a sacred culinary scripture.
As a seasoned veteran of chili cook-offs, my father was no stranger to the competitive arena where fellow enthusiasts converged to showcase their prowess in the art of chili-making. In the heartland of Texas, where culinary traditions run deep and chili reigns supreme as a beloved cultural icon, these spirited competitions were more than just a pastime; they were a time-honored tradition, a rite of passage for those who dared to test their mettle against the best.
Under my father’s tutelage, I gleaned not only the secrets to crafting the perfect bowl of chili but also the essence of passion, dedication, and craftsmanship that permeates every culinary endeavor. His legacy lives on not only in the savory aroma that wafts through our kitchen but also in the cherished memories of shared moments and shared meals that continue to nourish both body and soul.
This Texas-style chili is guaranteed to be a favorite with the whole family.
Chili, revered as a quintessential Texan comfort food, holds a cherished place in the hearts and stomachs of locals. Its rich, robust flavor profile and fiery kick are emblematic of the Lone Star State’s culinary identity. Every Texan is intimately familiar with this beloved dish, having savored its hearty goodness on countless occasions. Yet, true aficionados understand one fundamental truth: authentic Texas-style chili is steadfastly devoid of beans.
Officially designated as “chili con carne,” this savory delight proudly claims the title of Texas’s official state dish. Its origins, shrouded in historical lore and culinary legend, trace back to the bustling streets of 19th-century San Antonio. While myriad tales abound regarding its inception, one unifying thread persists across every narrative: chili burst onto the American culinary scene in San Antonio, Texas, during the 1800s, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s palate.
This recipe yields a hearty and flavorful batch of classic Texas-style chili, perfect for warming up those chilly evenings or serving up at gatherings with friends and family.
Dad’s Award Winning Texas Style Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 4.5 lbs Ground Meat
- 2 Cups Chopped Onion
- 8 Cloves Garlic
- 1 Can Dark Beer
- 16 oz Tomato Sauce
- 6 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Hot Sauce
- 4 tbsp Cumin
- 4 tbsp Beef Bulion
- 1 tbsp Chicken Bulion
- 4 tsp Paprika
- 4 tsp Brown Sugar
- 2 Packages Sazen Goya
- 300 mL Beef Broth
Instructions
- Begin by browning the ground meat in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, dark beer, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot with the browned meat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- While the mixture simmers, prepare the remaining ingredients. If you prefer, you can mix the dry ingredients (chili powder, cumin, beef and chicken bouillon, paprika, brown sugar, and Sazon Goya) in a bowl beforehand for easier incorporation.
- After 3 hours, give the chili a taste test. Adjust the seasoning as needed, particularly the cumin, to suit your taste preferences. If you add more cumin, continue to simmer the chili for an additional thirty minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the chili reaches your desired flavor and consistency, it's ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
- Adjust the chili’s consistency to your liking by controlling the lid: for a thicker texture, simply remove the lid; for a thinner consistency, keep the lid on.
- Remember to stir the mixture frequently to ensure even cooking.
- To prepare a smaller batch, scale down the ingredients accordingly for best results.
