Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Author A Pleasant Little Kitchen | February 2, 2024

Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Serves 5-7

Author Note: The addition of a tomato and corn tortilla puree comes from America's Test Kitchen, The Complete Slow Cooker. This step is brilliant because it not only creates a thickening agent for the chili but it also adds a layer of texture to the chili.

3 pounds stew meat

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1/2 medium onion, diced

1 12-ounce bottle lager beer 

2 cups low-sodium beef stock

1 14.5 ounce (1 3/4 cups) canned tomatoes

5 corn tortillas, cut into pieces

2 jalapenos (or serrano) pepper, seeded chopped

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon cumin

2 tablespoons chili powder

2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

30 minutes before cooking, evenly distribute 1 teaspoon of salt over the stew meat.

When ready to cook, add 1 tablespoon of canola oil to a large skillet. Heat over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering add half of the stew meat. Brown the meat in the canola oil, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the meat and place into a warm slow cooker. Repeat this step for the second batch of the stew meat.

Lower the temperature to medium and add tomato paste and onions. Sautee until browned, about 1 minute. Add the beef stock, beer, tomatoes, bouillon cube and tortilla pieces. Scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool for 5 minutes.

Add the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until it is a thick and smooth consistency.

Pour the tomato mixture into the slow cooker covering the meat. Add the cumin, garlic, chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt and oregano to the mixture. Stir well. Cover and cook 6-7 hours on high or 9-10 hours on low.

Add the vinegar and stir. Warm through for 5 minutes. Serve warm with cilantro and sour cream.

 

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