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Mexico Style Beef Chili

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Mexico Style Beef Chili is a bold and hearty stew made with tender beef, a rich blend of spices, and smoky dried chilies, offering deep traditional Mexican flavors perfect for cold days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for depth)
  • Chopped cilantro and diced onion, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place dried chilies in a bowl, cover with hot water, and soak for 15 minutes until softened. Then blend with a little soaking liquid until smooth.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in cumin, oregano, cinnamon, and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add the blended chili mixture, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Return beef to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and add cocoa powder if using.
  7. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 2 to 2.5 hours until the beef is very tender.
  8. Stir in apple cider vinegar before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and diced onion.

Notes

  • Adjust chili types based on heat preference—pasilla or chipotle can also be used.
  • Serve with rice, tortillas, or cornbread.
  • Tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded.

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