Slow Cooker Steak Chili: Easy & Hearty

A Culinary Journey

Imagine a hearty, soul-warming bowl of chili, brimming with tender chunks of steak, vibrant vegetables, and a complex blend of spices. This isn’t your ordinary chili; it’s a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to diverse cultural influences.

Ingredients:

Image Source: neighborfoodblog.com

2 pounds boneless chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the steak on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the seared steak to a slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour the vegetable mixture over the steak in the slow cooker.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Total Time: 10-14 hours (including slow cooking)

Serving Suggestions:

Classic Comfort: Serve with cornbread or crusty bread.

Mexican Fiesta: Top with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.

Hearty Meal: Pair with a side of rice or quinoa.

A Fusion of Flavors

This Steak Chili Con Carne is a culinary journey that blends the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine with the hearty comfort of American cooking. The rich, smoky flavors of the chili powder and paprika dance harmoniously with the tangy tomatoes and tender steak. Each spoonful is a symphony of tastes that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

As you savor this dish, let your imagination wander to the bustling markets of Mexico, where vibrant spices and fresh ingredients inspire culinary creativity. This chili is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience that brings people together.