Chipotle Chili Con Carne on the Arteflame Grill

Chipotle Chili Con Carne brings a smoky, spicy twist to the classic dish by incorporating chipotle peppers and a bold blend of spices. Cooking it on the Arteflame grill intensifies the rich flavors and gives the chili an amazing depth. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for outdoor grilling.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting your Arteflame grill. Soak three paper napkins in vegetable oil, place them in the grill, and stack firewood on top. Light the grill and allow it to heat up for about 20 minutes, preparing different heat zones for high-heat searing and low simmering.

2. Sear the Beef

Season the beef cubes with salt and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron Dutch oven on the flat cooktop. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set the seared beef aside.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Add the minced garlic and chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, cooking for another minute to release the smoky flavors.

4. Add Spices and Tomatoes

Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toast the spices for about 1 minute, then add the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.

5. Simmer the Chili

Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven. Move the pot to a cooler zone on the flat cooktop for low, even heat, and let the chili simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken, and the beef should become tender.

6. Finish and Serve

Stir in the apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve the chili garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a zesty finish.

Tips:

• Use Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle peppers add a smoky heat to the chili, balancing the richness of the beef. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Simmer Slowly: Cook the chili low and slow on the cooler zones of the Arteflame grill to achieve tender beef and a thick, flavorful sauce.
• Browning is Key: Be sure to sear the beef thoroughly before simmering—it adds depth and locks in juices.

Variations:

1. Smokier Chipotle Chili: Add 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke for an even more intense smoky flavor.
2. Chorizo Chipotle Chili: Replace some of the beef with ground chorizo for a spicier, richer chili.
3. Chipotle Turkey Chili: Swap the beef for ground turkey for a lighter version of this smoky dish.
4. Vegetarian Chipotle Chili: Replace the beef with a variety of beans and vegetables like sweet potatoes and zucchini.
5. Chocolate Chipotle Chili: Add a small piece of dark chocolate during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a rich, complex flavor.

Best Pairings:

• Grilled cornbread or tortillas
• A side of grilled peppers and onions
• Topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado slices
• A cold Mexican beer or margarita