This Brisket Chili is absolutely full of flavor, smoky, and rich. This rich and hearty base of chili with beans, tomatoes, and warming spices is combined with succulent bits of smoked brisket cooked slowly.
This is the perfect dish that can not only warm your stomach but also feed an entire crowd.
lngredients for Brisket Chili
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef brisket | 2 lbs | Cooked or raw |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | |
| Onion | 1 large | Diced |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Bell peppers | 2 | Chopped |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz | |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Optional |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Optional |
| Beef broth | 1½ cups | |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons | |
| Smoked paprika | 1½ teaspoons | |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon | |
| Chipotle powder | ½ teaspoon | Optional |
| Oregano | ½ teaspoon | |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Instructions for Brisket Chili
1. Prepare the Brisket
In case we have raw brisket, then we should first cut the meat into pieces and season with a little salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Brisket
Place some olive oil in a big pot and place it over a medium to high flame. Brown the brisket pieces on all sides.
3. Sautee the Vegetables
In the same pot, sautee the onions and bell peppers in oil for around five minutes. Put the minced garlic in the pot and sautée for one more minute.
4. Make the Chili
Place the brisket pieces back into the pot. Pour the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, beef broth, and all the seasoning spices into the pot. Stir well.
5. Simmer on a Low Flame
Close the pot with a lid and cook on a low flame for two and a half to three hours, or until the brisket becomes tender.
6. Break up the Brisket
Break up the meat slightly or keep it in chunks depending on your choice. Simmer for ten to fifteen more minutes.
7. Serve
Enjoy your dish.
Slow Cooker Method
- Combine all ingredients into the slow cooker.
- Simmer at LOW heat for 8-9 hours or at HIGH heat for 5-6 hours.
- Shred meat before serving.
Instant Pot Method
- Brown brisket in sauté function.
- Add other ingredients.
- Pressure cook at HIGH setting for 60-70 minutes.
- Allow natural release, then shred and stir.
Tips for the Best Brisket Chili
- Use smoked or leftover brisket for added depth of flavor
- Chili “rest flavor” makes it better the next day
- Add coffee or cocoa for added depth of flavor
- Adjust heat level by adding chipotle or cayenne
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
- Serve with combrisad or crusty bread
- If you like spicy food, you can add jalapenos
- Can be served with cold beverages or iced tea
Storage
- Refrigeration: Can be refrigerated up to 4-5 days
- Freezing: Can be frozen up to 3 months
- Thaw slowly before serving
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is brisket chili special compared to regular chili?
The use of cooked beef brisket in brisket chili gives it more flavor and tenderness than traditional chili made with ground beef.
How much time does brisket chili take to cook?
For best results, it is recommended that brisket chili be cooked for a minimum of 2-2.5 hours over low heat.
Is it possible to make brisket chili using a slow cooker?
Yes, brisket chili can be cooked in a slow cooker for a period of 6-8 hours on low heat, or 3-4 hours on high heat.
Which beans would you suggest adding to your brisket chili recipe?
Kidney beans and black beans are the most popular choices; however, pinto beans can be added as well.
How could I give my chili a smoky taste?
Some ways to add smoky flavor to chili include smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, and a dash of liquid smoke.
Is it possible to freeze my brisket chili?
Yes, it is possible to freeze brisket chili for up to three months.
Are there any recommended toppings for brisket chili?
Popular brisket chili toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapenos, and cilantro.
