Chili is a beloved comfort food that warms the soul and satisfies the taste buds. While traditional chili recipes often feature ground beef or chunks of chuck roast, we are here to introduce a mouthwatering twist – Bottom Round Roast Chili! By slow-cooking this lean and tender cut of beef with aromatic spices and a variety of beans, we create a chili that is not only rich and flavorful but also packed with wholesome goodness. Join us on this culinary adventure as we explore the art of making a delicious and hearty Bottom Round Roast Chili that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.
Understanding the Appeal of Bottom Round Roast in Chili:
Bottom Round Roast is an excellent choice for chili due to its lean yet tender characteristics. When cooked low and slow, this cut becomes irresistibly succulent, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the chili. Unlike traditional chuck roast, Bottom Round Roast provides a leaner alternative without compromising on taste. The result is a chili that is not only delectable but also healthier, making it a perfect choice for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Bottom Round Roast Chili:
For the Bottom Round Roast:
- 2 pounds of Bottom Round Roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chili:
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (14 oz) of tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) of pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
Preparing the Bottom Round Roast:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed Bottom Round Roast to the pot and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This process helps lock in the juices and adds a depth of flavor to the chili.
- Once the beef is nicely browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Preparing the Chili Base:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the pot and continue to sauté until they become tender.
- Sprinkle chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir the spices in, allowing them to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and tomato sauce. Stir the mixture well to combine the flavors.
Slow Cooking the Bottom Round Roast Chili:
- Return the seared Bottom Round Roast to the pot and mix it with the chili base.
- Add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Stir them into the chili.
- Pour in the beef broth and water, ensuring that the liquid covers all the ingredients. If desired, add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili cook for at least 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender and succulent.
Serving the Bottom Round Roast Chili:
- Once the chili is ready, remove it from the heat.
- Ladle the hot and fragrant chili into individual bowls.
- Garnish each serving with chopped fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime for a burst of brightness and freshness.
- Accompany the chili with warm cornbread or a side of rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Bottom Round Roast Chili offers a delightful twist to the classic comfort food, adding lean and tender beef to create a wholesome and flavorful dish. With its aromatic spices and hearty blend of beans, this chili is guaranteed to please your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Enjoy the cozy warmth of this hearty chili on chilly days or any time you crave a comforting and nourishing meal. Get ready to savor each spoonful of this delightful Bottom Round Roast Chili!