This Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe is a flavor-packed delight that brings together tender beef short ribs and spicy Mexican chorizo, simmered to perfection. Ideal for cozy evenings or gatherings, this chili is sure to impress friends and family alike. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes and a unique blend of spices elevates this dish to a whole new level, making it a must-try recipe for chili lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The mix of short ribs and chorizo creates a rich and hearty taste that will warm you up.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious chili without any hassle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a cozy night in, this dish fits right in.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves 8, making it perfect for parties or meal prepping.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in creating your short rib and chorizo chili.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for simmering the chili evenly without burning.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and easy for prep work.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without damaging your pot.
Ingredients
This spicy chili is loaded with tender beef short ribs simmered with Mexican chorizo, fire roasted tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices, award winning!
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For the Chili Base
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes))
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped (use serranos for hotter, or more to taste))
- 6 cloves garlic (chopped (or more to taste))
For the Protein
- 1 pound Mexican chorizo
For the Liquids
- 1 cup beef stock
- 3 15-ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes
For the Beans
- 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained)
- 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (drained)
For Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder blend (I’m using a hot New Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Hot sauce (to taste)
Optional Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons corn meal (optional, for thickening – or use crushed or torn corn tortillas)
To Serve
- Your favorite toppings for serving
How to Make Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. Sear them for 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust. If necessary, do this in batches. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.
Step 3: Add Chorizo and Garlic
Next, stir in the chopped garlic and Mexican chorizo. Cook for another 5 minutes while breaking up the chorizo until it’s mostly cooked through.
Step 4: Incorporate Spices
Add in the chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute so that the spices bloom.
Step 5: Add Beef Stock
Pour in the beef stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds extra flavor!
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the reserved short ribs back into the pot along with fire roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir everything together.
Step 7: Simmer
Bring your chili to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 2 hours. You want those short ribs to become melt-in-your-mouth tender; you may need even longer depending on your preference.
Step 8: Thicken if Necessary
If you find that your chili is too soupy after simmering, stir in corn meal as needed. Let it simmer again until thickened.
Step 9: Serve
Finally, ladle your delicious chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings before serving! Enjoy your Short Rib and Chorizo Chili!
How to Serve Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
Serving your Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe can elevate the dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will help you create a memorable meal.
Toppings
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully on top.
- Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions provide a nice crunch and color.
- Cilantro – A sprinkle of cilantro gives a fresh, herby flavor that complements the chili.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a perfect match to soak up the chili’s flavors.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and can be used for dipping.
- Rice – Serve over a bed of rice for a filling meal that stretches the chili further.
Garnishes
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens the dish with acidity.
- Hot Sauce – For those who crave extra heat, provide a variety of hot sauces at the table.

How to Perfect Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
To make your Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh, high-quality short ribs and chorizo will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify jalapeno amounts based on your spice tolerance.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the chili to rest after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Try Different Beans – Experiment with other beans like pinto or cannellini for variety in texture.
- Add More Vegetables – Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some side dishes that complement this hearty chili.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious chili broth; simply toast bread with garlic butter.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts beautifully with the rich chili.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet, grilled corn pairs well with spicy flavors; serve it with lime butter.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – A creamy, tangy salad made from corn, lime, cheese, and spices enhances any chili dish.
- Potato Salad – A classic side that balances heat; try adding herbs for an extra kick.
- Quesadillas – Cheese-filled tortillas provide a cheesy complement; serve alongside chili for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes can elevate your Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe to perfection. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
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Skipping the Sear: Not searing the short ribs properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sear until they have a nice brown crust.
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Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the onions and jalapenos for too long can make them mushy. Aim for just enough time to soften them, about 5 minutes.
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Ignoring Spice Balance: Adding too much or too little spice can throw off the entire dish. Taste as you go and adjust spices gradually.
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Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap chorizo may not provide the authentic flavor you need. Opt for high-quality Mexican chorizo for the best results.
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Not Letting it Simmer Long Enough: Rushing through the simmering process won’t allow flavors to meld properly. Give it at least 2 hours for optimal taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Short Rib and Chorizo Chili in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Label containers with date for easy tracking.
Freezing Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Leave some space in containers as chili expands when frozen.
Reheating Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe
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Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30-40 minutes or until warmed through.
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Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
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Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until it reaches your desired temperature, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious chili:
How can I customize my Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe?
You can add different beans, such as pinto or navy beans, or include vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
What should I serve with my Short Rib and Chorizo Chili?
Consider serving it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad to balance the chili’s spiciness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded together. Make it ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You could use leaner cuts of beef or reduce the amount of chorizo while adding more beans and vegetables for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Short Rib and Chorizo Chili Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your heart on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate; give this rich, spicy chili a try today!
Short Rib and Chorizo Chili
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Short Rib and Chorizo Chili is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that effortlessly combines tender beef short ribs with the spicy kick of Mexican chorizo. Perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests, this chili features fire-roasted tomatoes and a blend of spices that elevate it to gourmet status. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s destined to become a family favorite. Whether served at game day gatherings or family dinners, this chili is easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy a satisfying meal that warms both the heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 pound Mexican chorizo
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped)
- 6 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 3 cans (15-ounce) fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 can black beans (drained)
- 1 can red kidney beans (drained)
- Worcestershire sauce
- Chili powder
- Mexican oregano
- Cumin
- Hot sauce
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, then set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and jalapeños for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and chorizo; cook until chorizo is mostly cooked through.
- Add spices and stir for one minute to bloom flavors.
- Pour in beef stock, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return short ribs to the pot along with tomatoes, beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 2 hours.
- If needed, thicken with cornmeal before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg




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