Steakhouse Chili: Slow Cooker Goodness

A Symphony of Flavors

This isn’t just a chili; it’s a culinary journey, a harmonious blend of bold flavors and comforting warmth. Imagine tender chunks of steak, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, smoky chili, all simmered to velvety goodness in a trusty crock pot. This is the Smoky Steakhouse Chili, a dish that pays homage to the classic American chili while infusing it with international flair.

Ingredients:

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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

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 tablespoons chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

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

4 cups beef broth

1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup water

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped, 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. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the steak and vegetables to a slow cooker. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and water.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. Stir occasionally.
5. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro.

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

Serving Suggestions:

Classic Comfort: Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crusty bread.

Elevated Elegance: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad.

Tex-Mex Twist: Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños.

Global Fusion: Experiment with different toppings like avocado, lime, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

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A Cultural Melting Pot

The Smoky Steakhouse Chili is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from the hearty stews of American cowboy culture, the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine, and the aromatic spices of the Middle East. Each ingredient and technique contributes to a symphony of taste, creating a dish that is both familiar and exotic.

As you savor each spoonful of this chili, let it transport you to a world of culinary adventure. It’s a dish that celebrates the diversity of flavors and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.