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Cozy Steak and Ale Chili

steak and ale chili - featured image

A hearty, soul-warming chili featuring tender steak chunks simmered with rich ale and spices, perfect for cozy winter meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds sirloin or chuck steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted
  • 1.5 cups beef broth, preferably low sodium
  • 1 cup dark ale or stout (e.g., Guinness)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: Cut steak into 1-inch cubes, finely chop onion, mince garlic, dice red bell pepper, and drain and rinse kidney beans.
  2. Brown the steak: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove steak and set aside.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and red bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomato paste and spices: Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and brown sugar. Toast for 2 minutes.
  5. Deglaze with ale: Pour in ale, scraping browned bits from the bottom. Simmer gently for 3 minutes.
  6. Add tomatoes, broth, and steak: Stir in diced tomatoes with juice and beef broth. Return steak to pot and bring to a simmer.
  7. Simmer gently: Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 45-60 minutes until steak is tender and sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
  8. Add beans and adjust seasoning: Stir in kidney beans and cook uncovered for 5 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Serve and garnish: Ladle chili into bowls and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.

Notes

Brown steak in batches to avoid steaming and ensure a good crust. Toast spices with tomato paste to enhance flavor. Simmer low and slow for tender steak. Adjust thickness by adding broth or simmering uncovered. Substitute gluten-free beer or extra broth for gluten-free version. Slow cooker adaptation available.

Nutrition

Keywords: steak chili, ale chili, hearty chili, winter meals, comfort food, slow simmer chili, beef chili, easy chili recipe