Alton Brown Chili Recipe Slow Cooker – Easy Family Meal
In my culinary journey, I've often found that comfort food has a unique way of bringing people together. Nothing quite embodies that spirit like a steaming bowl of chili.
Today, I’m diving into Alton Brown’s illustrious slow cooker chili recipe. If you’re like me, you’ve probably seen Alton on TV, whipping up incredible dishes with his signature flair.
His approach combines science and flavor, resulting in meals that are not just good, but memorable. This chili recipe is no exception.
What is Alton Brown Chili Slow Cooker?
Alton Brown's slow cooker chili is a flavorful blend of spices, savory meats, and zesty ingredients that cook low and slow to create a rich, complex flavor that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma.
Alton's recipe incorporates both beef stew chunks and a mix of unique flavor profiles, enhancing the depth of the dish. The use of amber ale adds an intriguing twist, giving it a rounded taste that is simply extraordinary.
How Does It Taste Like?
If you’re wondering about the flavor, let me paint a picture for you. Imagine a smooth, rich chili that warms your soul. The beef is tender, almost melting in your mouth, while every bite is punctuated by the crunch of crushed tortilla chips and a slight kick from the chipotle peppers.
The cocoa powder? It adds a surprising depth, balancing the heat with a touch of sweetness. Every mouthful of this chili feels like a hug—not too spicy, just enough to awaken your senses, and extraordinarily comforting.
Why You'll Love This?
Easy Preparation: It’s a dump-and-go recipe. Toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do its magic.
Time-Saver: Set it and forget it—perfect for busy days.
Flavor Infusion: Cooking slowly allows the spices and ingredients to meld beautifully, making each bite flavorful.
Customizable: You can make this recipe your own, swapping ingredients as you see fit.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it's game day or a family meal, this chili is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (like canola or avocado oil)
- 3 pounds diced beef stew chunks (1-inch cubes)
- 1 ¾ teaspoons sea salt
- 1 (12-ounce) bottle of amber ale
- 16 ounces chunky salsa
- 1 tablespoon rich tomato concentrate (paste)
- 2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon smoky adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon bold chili seasoning
- 1 teaspoon toasted cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 30 crushed tortilla chips
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Crispy tortilla strips or additional crushed chips
- Fresh avocado cubes
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster. Measure out your spices, chop the chipotle peppers, and get your beef ready.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the neutral cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced beef. Sprinkle with sea salt and sear until browned on all sides. This step is crucial; it adds a depth of flavor that will make your chili exceptional.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once the beef is browned, transfer it into the slow cooker. Then, pour in the amber ale, allowing it to deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
Next, add the chunky salsa, tomato paste, minced chipotle peppers, smoky adobo sauce, chili seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa powder.
Step 4: Mix Well
Give everything a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. It should look colorful and appetizing.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours. If you're in a rush, you can cook it on high for about 4 hours. The longer, the better, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Tortilla Chips
When you’re ready to serve, stir in the crushed tortilla chips for that delightful crunch and to thicken the chili just a bit. The texture should be thick and hearty.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Serve the chili hot, and let everyone add their toppings of choice. Shredded cheese, crispy strips, fresh avocado—the possibilities are delicious!
Tips on Making Alton Brown Chili in a Slow Cooker
- Brown the Meat First: Searing the beef develops a deeper flavor.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh spices and good quality meat make a difference in taste.
- Let It Chill: Chili often tastes even better the next day. Make it in advance and reheat.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you're sensitive to heat, use fewer chipotle peppers or substitute them with milder peppers.
- Experiment with Beans: Want beans? Throw in some black beans or kidney beans for added texture and nutrition.
How Do You Store This Alton Brown Chili?
Storing this chili is a breeze. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. In the fridge, it will last about 4-5 days.
If you want to prolong its life, consider freezing it. Portion out your chili into freezer-safe containers, and it should be good for up to three months. Just be sure to label them!
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Alton Brown Chili?
You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are five suggestions:
- Ground Turkey/Chicken: For a leaner option, replace beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or black beans instead of meat. Cook them with similar spices for a satisfying dish.
- Different Alcohol: Swap the amber ale for a robust non-alcoholic beer for a unique flavor without the alcohol.
- Tomato Alternatives: If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can substitute fresh diced tomatoes for salsa, adjusting spices as needed.
- Modified Toppings: Instead of cheese, use a dairy-free version or skip them altogether for a lighter chili.
Conclusion
Alton Brown's slow cooker chili is a celebration of flavors that brings joy to simple, home-cooked meals. With easy preparation, a wealth of flavor, and the ability to make it your own, it stands out as a favorite in my recipe lineup.
Now, each time I pull that comforting bowl of chili from the slow cooker, I remember not just the dish, but the friends and family gathered around the table sharing stories and laughter.
So go ahead, give it a try, and create your own memories around this bowl of deliciousness!
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When it comes to Alton Brown's slow cooker chili, a few classic accompaniments can elevate your experience. Picture this: a hearty bowl of chili nestled beside a cornbread muffin, its slightly sweet texture balancing the spice of the dish.
Perhaps add a dollop of sour cream on top to cool your taste buds, or layer on some shredded cheese for that gooey, melty delight.
Don’t forget to serve it with crispy tortilla chips for that satisfying crunch! You could also whip up a refreshing side salad to cut through the richness—greens with a light vinaigrette, maybe.
These pairings not only complement the chili but also make your dining experience feel more complete and satisfying.
- 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil (such as canola or avocado oil)
- 3 pounds diced beef stew chunks (1-inch cubes)
- 1 3/4 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 bottle of amber ale (12-ounce)
- 16 ounces chunky salsa
- 1 tablespoon rich tomato concentrate (paste)
- 2 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon smoky adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon bold chili seasoning
- 1 teaspoon toasted cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 30 crushed tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Crispy tortilla strips or additional crushed chips
- Fresh avocado cubes
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Start by gathering your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster. Measure out your spices, chop the chipotle peppers, and get your beef ready.
- In a large skillet, heat the neutral cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced beef. Sprinkle with sea salt and sear until browned on all sides. This step is crucial; it adds a depth of flavor that will make your chili exceptional.
Once the beef is browned, transfer it into the slow cooker. Then, pour in the amber ale, allowing it to deglaze any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet.
Next, add the chunky salsa, tomato paste, minced chipotle peppers, smoky adobo sauce, chili seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa powder.
- Give everything a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. It should look colorful and appetizing.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 hours. If you're in a rush, you can cook it on high for about 4 hours. The longer, the better, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When you’re ready to serve, stir in the crushed tortilla chips for that delightful crunch and to thicken the chili just a bit. The texture should be thick and hearty.
- Serve the chili hot, and let everyone add their toppings of choice. Shredded cheese, crispy strips, fresh avocado—the possibilities are delicious!
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 761kcal
- Calories from Fat 268kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30.5g47%
- Saturated Fat 8.7g44%
- Trans Fat 0.8g
- Cholesterol 225mg75%
- Sodium 2469mg103%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Sugars 17g
- Protein 82g164%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Brown the Meat First: Searing the beef develops a deeper flavor.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh spices and good quality meat make a difference in taste.
- Let It Chill: Chili often tastes even better the next day. Make it in advance and reheat.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you're sensitive to heat, use fewer chipotle peppers or substitute them with milder peppers.
- Experiment with Beans: Want beans? Throw in some black beans or kidney beans for added texture and nutrition.
I’m Crystal Ivers, a registered dietitian and the creator of Easy Family Meal. Living in Chicago with my family, I’m passionate about helping busy families create simple, nutritious, and delicious meals. Through my blog, I share easy-to-make recipes and practical tips to make family mealtime enjoyable and stress-free.