Smoky Texas Chili

Make Smoky Texas Chili. This recipe is easy, savory, and perfect for game day or the holidays. The blend of smoked chuck roast with rich spices creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this chili is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The smoky taste from the beef chuck roast combined with spices creates an unforgettable flavor.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this chili without any fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for game days, holiday gatherings, or a hearty family dinner.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it by adding your favorite toppings like cheese, jalapeños, or sour cream.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 16 servings, it’s perfect for entertaining friends and family.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Smoky Texas Chili, you’ll need the right tools and equipment. Preparing your ingredients ahead of time will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: Essential for infusing the beef with that rich smoky flavor that defines this recipe.
• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking of the chili.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables and cutting the meat easier and safer.

Ingredients

For the Chili

• 4 lbs. Beef Chuck Roast, smoked, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
• ¼ cup dark chili powder
• 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 Tbsp. cumin
• 1 Tbsp. fine black pepper
• 1 tsp. garlic powder 
• 2 roasted poblanos, coarsely chopped
• 1 qt. beef stock
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes 
• 1 tsp. Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp. beef base
• 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• Optional: Kosher Salt to taste

For the Dumplings

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• ½  tsp. salt
• ¼ cup honey or ½ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¼ -½ cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced

How to Make Smoky Texas Chili

Step 1: Prepare Your Smoker

Add wood chunks, chips, pellets, or charcoal to the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Preheat it to 250°F.

Step 2: Smoke the Chuck Roast

Season the trimmed chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
Place the chuck roast on the rack in the smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions and set a timer for 8 hours.

Step 3: Wrap and Continue Smoking

After 4 hours or when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 180°F, wrap it in unwaxed butcher paper and place it back on the smoker.

Step 4: Finish Smoking

After another 4 hours or when the roast reaches an internal temperature of 208–210°F, remove it from the smoker.
Let it rest in the butcher paper for at least 1 hour before slicing into cubes right before adding it to the chili.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

In a dutch oven over MEDIUM-HIGH heat, heat vegetable oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add red bell pepper and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 6: Add Spices

Stir in dark chili powder, smoked paprika, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and garlic powder for about a minute until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add cubed smoked chuck roast and poblano peppers to coat them in spices. Stir in beef stock and crushed tomatoes to deglaze the bottom of the pot.

Step 8: Seasoning

Add Mexican oregano, beef base, Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

Step 9: Simmer

Bring chili to a boil then reduce heat to LOW; cover and simmer for about 40 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 10: Prepare Dumplings

While chili simmers, mix together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a bowl.

Step 11: Combine Wet Ingredients

Gently fold in eggs followed by buttermilk until just combined.

Step 12: Add Cheese & Jalapeños

Fold shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños into batter without overmixing.

Step 13: Cook Dumplings

Drop dollops of dumpling batter (about 1–2 oz.) into simmering chili; cover and cook for another 20 minutes until dumplings are firm yet fluffy.

Step 14: Serve

Serve chili hot in bowls garnished with shredded cheese, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and a dollop of sour cream if desired!

How to Serve Smoky Texas Chili

Serving Smoky Texas Chili can elevate any gathering, whether it’s a game day or a cozy family dinner. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser, and there are many ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a generous amount of shredded sharp cheddar for a creamy texture.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds coolness to balance the heat.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness and enhances the chili’s complex flavors.

Pair with Cornbread

• Homemade Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side; its sweetness complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
• Jalapeño Cornbread: For an extra kick, try jalapeño cornbread that pairs perfectly with the spice in the chili.

Enjoy with Chips

• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for dipping into the chili. They add texture and are fun for casual gatherings.
• Pita Chips: For a healthier option, serve pita chips alongside your chili for dipping.

How to Perfect Smoky Texas Chili

To make sure your Smoky Texas Chili turns out amazing every time, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Meat: Start with good-quality beef chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Balance Spices Carefully: Adjust spices according to your taste. Adding too much chili powder can make it overly spicy, so taste as you go.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. If time permits, let it cook for an hour or more.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the chili rest after cooking allows flavors to meld together. Serve it after resting for at least 30 minutes.

Best Side Dishes for Smoky Texas Chili

Complementing your Smoky Texas Chili with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy salad balances the richness of the chili and adds freshness.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread is a comforting accompaniment that everyone loves.
3. Stuffed Peppers: These add another layer of flavor and variety; consider filling them with rice or cheese.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while enhancing its smoky theme.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a cool contrast to the spicy chili; serve chilled for best results.
6. Pickled Jalapeños: For those who like extra heat, pickled jalapeños can be served on top or on the side as a tangy garnish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Smoky Texas Chili, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a delicious result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your meat and vegetables properly can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasoning during cooking.
• Not using smoked meat – Using regular beef instead of smoked chuck roast misses the essential smoky flavor. Make sure to smoke the roast beforehand for authentic taste.
• Overcooking the dumplings – Overcooked dumplings can become dense and chewy. Keep an eye on them while they simmer to achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
• Ignoring ingredient quality – Using low-quality ingredients can affect the overall flavor. Opt for fresh vegetables and good quality beef stock for the best results.
• Rushing the cooking process – Chili benefits from slow cooking, which enhances flavors. Allow enough time for simmering to fully develop the dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Smoky Texas Chili will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Smoky Texas Chili

• Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Smoky Texas Chili

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave – Transfer a serving into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop – Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Smoky Texas Chili:

What makes Smoky Texas Chili different from regular chili?

Smoky Texas Chili features smoked chuck roast, adding a deep and rich flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

Can I customize my Smoky Texas Chili?

Absolutely! You can add beans, different types of peppers, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How spicy is Smoky Texas Chili?

The spice level depends on your choice of peppers and seasonings. For milder chili, use less jalapeño or remove seeds.

What should I serve with Smoky Texas Chili?

Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a hearty meal that complements its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Smoky Texas Chili is a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its rich flavors and customizable ingredients make it versatile for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty bowl of warmth!