Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Cholesterol 75mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 7g29%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 35g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
1. Why This Recipe Works
This Halal Beef Chili is designed to deliver maximum flavor while ensuring compliance with halal dietary guidelines. The slow-cooking process allows the beef to become exceptionally tender while absorbing the deep, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors of the spices and liquid ingredients. By using halal turkey bacon and a non-alcoholic malt beverage, we maintain the richness of a traditional Guinness chili while keeping it completely halal-friendly.
2. Ingredient Breakdown
Halal-Certified Beef Stew Meat
- The choice of beef stew meat (such as chuck or brisket) ensures that the beef remains juicy and fork-tender after slow cooking.
- Ensure the meat is halal-certified to adhere to dietary restrictions.
Halal Turkey Bacon
- Turkey bacon replaces traditional pork bacon while still contributing a smoky and slightly crispy texture to the chili.
- If unavailable, smoked beef bacon is another excellent alternative.
Non-Alcoholic Malt Beverage
- This replaces Guinness beer while still enhancing the depth of flavor with its malty, slightly sweet taste.
- Make sure to choose a halal-certified, 0.0% alcohol version.
Tomato Paste & Tomato Sauce
- Tomato paste adds richness and a concentrated depth of flavor.
- Tomato sauce balances out the spice and acidity of the chili.
Beef Broth
- The broth serves as the primary cooking liquid, infusing the beef with additional flavor.
- Use halal-certified beef broth or make your own by simmering beef bones and vegetables.
Spice Blend for a Bold Flavor
- Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander create the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and earthiness.
- Dried oregano enhances the herbaceous undertones, adding complexity to the dish.
3. Cooking Techniques Used
Browning the Meat (The Maillard Reaction)
- Searing the beef before slow cooking creates a deep, caramelized crust, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Make sure to work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which could cause steaming instead of browning.
Deglazing for Maximum Flavor
- After browning the beef, deglazing with broth helps lift the browned bits stuck to the pot.
- This technique adds depth and complexity to the chili.
Slow Cooking for Tender Meat
- Cooking at 165°C (325°F) for 1.5 to 2 hours allows the connective tissues in the beef to break down, making the meat tender.
- Stirring every 30 minutes ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
4. Adjustments & Variations
Spice Level Customization
- If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder to 1 tablespoon and add an extra ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor.
- If you want more heat, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or finely chopped fresh jalapeños.
Texture Adjustments
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
- For a looser consistency, add more beef broth or a small amount of warm water.
Vegetarian or Alternative Protein Option
- To make a vegetarian version, replace beef with lentils, chickpeas, or a meat alternative like tofu crumbles.
- Swap the beef broth with vegetable broth.
5. Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Side Dish Ideas
- Crusty Bread – Ideal for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Steamed Rice – Helps balance the spiciness of the chili.
- Tortilla Chips – Adds a crunchy contrast.
- Cornbread – A classic pairing that complements the chili’s smoky flavors.
Topping Suggestions
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Chopped Avocado – Brings freshness and a buttery texture.
- Shredded Cheese (Halal-Certified Cheddar or Monterey Jack) – Enhances the richness.
- Fresh Cilantro and Green Onion – Brightens up the dish.
6. Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezing
- Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it has thickened too much.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcrowding the Pot When Browning Beef
- Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing. Always brown the meat in batches.
Skipping the Deglazing Step
- The browned bits stuck to the pan add incredible depth of flavor. Always scrape them up with broth!
Adding Too Much Liquid Too Soon
- It’s better to start with less liquid and adjust gradually as the chili simmers.
Not Allowing the Chili to Rest
- Resting for 10 minutes after cooking allows flavors to fully meld before serving.
Keywords:
Halal chili, beef chili, halal comfort food, slow-cooked chili, spicy beef stew, non-alcoholic Guinness chili, halal-friendly recipes, spicy stew, winter chili, hearty chili