Short Rib Chorizo Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

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Author: Elsa Nelson
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Bowl of short rib chorizo chili garnished with fresh herbs

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Short Rib Chorizo Chili

Short Rib Chorizo Chili is the ultimate comfort food recipe, rich in flavors and packed with hearty ingredients that create a deliciously warming meal. This chili is not just a dish; it’s an experience. With its tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll find all your stresses melt away as you savor each bite. The combination of tender short ribs, spicy chorizo, and vibrant vegetables creates a symphony of flavors, making it well worth the time and effort to prepare. Whether you’re gathered around a cozy dinner table with family or sharing good times with friends, this chili will be a star dish.

This recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With step-by-step directions, you can prepare it with ease and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Short Rib Chorizo Chili brings comfort straight to your table with minimal effort. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

  • Easy Prep: Despite its rich flavors, preparation remains uncomplicated, making it accessible for all cooking levels.
  • Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, satisfying the hungry bellies of both adults and kids.
  • Classic Comfort: With its deep, savory flavors, it’s the perfect dish for cozy nights in or gatherings with loved ones.
  • Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, beans, and vegetables, this chili offers a balance of nourishment and flavor.

Ingredients for Short Rib Chorizo Chili

To create this delightful Short Rib Chorizo Chili, gather the following ingredients:

  • 3 lbs bone-in short ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 lb Mexican chorizo, removed from casings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, diced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 (28-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 1 (15-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, avocado slices, lime wedges

Step-by-Step Directions for Short Rib Chorizo Chili

  1. Prepare the Meat: Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

  2. Sear the Short Ribs: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, then set aside.

  3. Cook the Chorizo: In the same pot, cook the chorizo until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove and set aside.

  4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  5. Add the Heat: Stir in the minced jalapeño and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

  6. Spice It Up: Incorporate the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.

  7. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, which adds flavor.

  8. Combine Ingredients: Return the short ribs and chorizo to the pot. Add the undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, and beans. Stir well to combine.

  9. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and meat to become tender.

  10. Shred and Return Meat: Remove the short ribs from the pot. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding any bones, and return the shredded meat to the chili.

  11. Balance Flavors: Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar, tasting to adjust seasonings as needed.

  12. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of optional garnishes such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, avocado slices, or lime wedges.

Tips & Tricks

Enhance your Short Rib Chorizo Chili with these tips and tricks:

  • Flavor Development: Allow the chili to rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge to let the flavors develop even more.
  • Cooking Method: For a slow cooker version, follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours after combining ingredients in the slow cooker.
  • Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the level of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, or omit it completely for a milder chili.
  • Garnish Options: Try adding crumbled feta or avocado crema as an alternative topping for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Short Rib Chorizo Chili is perfect on its own or can be accompanied by various side dishes. Consider serving it with:

  • Cornbread: A slightly sweet, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chili.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Add a serving of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa for a filling meal.
  • Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips for scooping, enhancing the chili’s creaminess.
  • Salad: A fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the chili.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional breakdowns may vary, a typical serving of Short Rib Chorizo Chili is a hearty option. It is rich in protein due to the beef and beans, along with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Enjoying this meal provides comfort on a chilly evening without overindulging in unhealthy ingredients.

Storing Tips & Variations for Short Rib Chorizo Chili

If you find yourself with leftovers, or if you’re making this chili in advance, here are some storing tips:

  • Freezing: Chili freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until piping hot. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  • Healthier Swaps: To lighten the dish, consider using lean turkey chorizo or omitting some of the beans for a lower-carb option.
  • Creative Variations: Experiment with different beans like chickpeas or lentils, or add extra veggies such as zucchini or corn for variations.

Conclusion for Short Rib Chorizo Chili

Short Rib Chorizo Chili is an irresistible dish that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Packed with robust flavors and comforting ingredients, there’s no reason to wait any longer to try this recipe! Gather your loved ones, and let your kitchen become a haven of warmth and deliciousness. Dive into this delightful meal today and experience the magic of home-cooked comfort food!

FAQs

  1. Can I use different beans in this chili?
    Yes, you can customize your chili with various beans, such as black-eyed peas or chickpeas, based on your preference.

  2. How can I make this chili spicier?
    Add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat level.

  3. Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Replace the short ribs and chorizo with a medley of hearty vegetables, mushrooms, and tempeh or omit the meat entirely.

  4. Can I prepare this chili in advance?
    Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day! Make it a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to serve.

  5. What should I do if my chili is too thick?
    Add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency, stirring well until combined.

Short Rib Chorizo Chili

A rich and hearty chili featuring tender short ribs and spicy chorizo, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Meat and Base Ingredients
  • 3 lbs bone-in short ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces Bone-in for added flavor.
  • 1 lb Mexican chorizo, removed from casings Spicy or mild based on preference.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the meat.
Vegetables
  • 2 large yellow onions, diced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 large jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Seasonings
  • 3 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
Broth and Tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 cans 28-ounce diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
Beans
  • 1 can 15-ounce dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can 15-ounce black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can 15-ounce pinto beans, rinsed and drained
Additional Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • various Optional garnishes: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, avocado slices, lime wedges

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, then set aside.
  3. In the same pot, cook the chorizo until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove and set aside.
Cooking
  1. Add the diced onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced jalapeño and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Incorporate the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
  4. Pour in the beef broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Return the short ribs and chorizo to the pot. Add the undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, and beans. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours.
  7. Remove the short ribs from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the chili.
  8. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar, tasting to adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with optional garnishes.

Notes

Let the chili rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge for better flavor. Consider slow-cooking for 6-8 hours for a hands-off method.

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