London Broil Chili is a bold twist on a classic comfort food that brings rich, hearty flavors to the table. By using tender London broil instead of ground beef, we get a chili that’s packed with robust texture and a satisfying depth of taste. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings when we crave something warm and filling.
Ingredients
To create our rich and hearty London Broil Chili, we carefully select every ingredient to build layers of flavor and texture. Below is a detailed list covering all essentials to craft this satisfying dish.
Meat and Protein
We use London Broil as the star protein in this recipe. Unlike ground beef, it provides a uniquely tender and juicy base for the chili. Here’s what we need:
- 1.5 pounds London Broil, trimmed and cut into small bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing the meat
Vegetables
Fresh vegetables enrich the chili with natural sweetness and depth. For the best balance, we include:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional but recommended)
Spices and Seasonings
The perfect chili relies on a complex mix of spices. We use a bold yet balanced blend for deep flavor:
| Spice | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon, or to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat) |
Liquids and Broth
A rich chili needs a flavorful liquid base to meld everything together:
- 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup tomato sauce for richness and thickness
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost
Optional Toppings
To add fresh texture and complementary flavors, consider these garnishes:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Sliced jalapeños
- Diced avocado
Equipment and Tools
To prepare our London Broil Chili with precision and ease, having the right Equipment and Tools is essential. Here is a carefully curated list of items that will help us achieve the perfect balance of texture and flavor in this hearty dish.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For chopping onions, bell peppers, and dicing the London Broil into uniform cubes. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts which help in even cooking and presentation.
- Cutting Board
Preferably a sturdy, non-slip board for safety and ease during vegetable prep and meat cutting.
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
This is our primary cooking vessel. A Dutch oven retains heat well and allows for even browning of the London Broil along with simmering the chili for hours, which is crucial for developing deep flavors.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring the chili frequently to prevent burning and for thorough blending of spices and liquids.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Accurate measurement of spices like chili powder, cumin, and liquids ensures consistency and balanced flavors.
- Mixing Bowls
Useful for tossing vegetables with oil or seasoning before adding to the pot.
- Colander or Strainer
To drain canned beans or rinse vegetables if needed.
- Tongs
Helpful for handling the London Broil pieces during browning without piercing the meat, preserving juices.
- Ladle
For serving the chili neatly, especially when dishing into bowls for our optional toppings.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Chopping and dicing ingredients |
| Cutting Board | Safe prep surface |
| Large Dutch Oven | Browning and simmering the chili |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring and mixing |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate spice and liquid measurement |
| Mixing Bowls | Prepping vegetables |
| Colander/Strainer | Draining and rinsing |
| Tongs | Handling meat pieces during cooking |
| Ladle | Serving the chili |
Having these tools within reach will streamline our cooking process, allowing us to focus on building the rich, robust flavors that make this chili uniquely delicious. Remember that quality equipment enhances control and consistency in every step, from browning the London Broil to simmering the chili to perfection.
Preparation
To craft the perfect London Broil Chili, meticulous preparation is essential. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps to ensure every ingredient contributes to the deep, hearty flavors we want.
Preparing the London Broil
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the 1.5 pounds of London Broil. This keeps the chili lean but tender. Slice the meat against the grain into thin strips approximately ¼ inch thick. Cutting against the grain guarantees tender bites that absorb spice and broth flavors thoroughly during cooking. Set the sliced meat aside on a plate, covered, to maintain freshness.
Chopping Vegetables
We want each vegetable to complement the robust chili base:
- Onions: Peel and finely dice 1 large onion to release sweetness as it sautés.
- Bell Peppers: Core and seed 2 bell peppers (we recommend using a mix of red and yellow for color and sweetness), then chop into medium-sized pieces about ½ inch.
- Garlic: Mince 3 cloves of garlic finely to infuse a fragrant base.
Use a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board. Consistent sizes ensure even cooking and a harmonious texture in the chili.
Measuring Spices and Liquids
Accurate measurement keeps the flavor balanced and rich. Gather your chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, along with beef broth and tomato sauce, as outlined in the ingredient list.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons | Provides heat and depth |
| Ground cumin | 1 tablespoon | Adds earthy warmth |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Imparts subtle smokiness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds mild pungency |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Creates savory base |
| Tomato sauce | 1 cup | Adds acidity and body |
Use a set of measuring spoons and cups for precision. Combine spices in a small bowl to blend evenly before adding to the pot. This step helps the chili’s seasoning to distribute perfectly.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft our London Broil Chili, ensuring each layer of flavor develops perfectly and the texture remains hearty and tender.
Browning the London Broil
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Pat the sliced London Broil strips dry with paper towels to promote browning.
- Season the meat lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add the beef strips in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Brown the beef for 3-4 minutes on each side until a deep golden crust forms.
- Transfer the browned meat to a plate and set aside.
Sautéing Vegetables
- In the same Dutch oven, reduce heat to medium.
- Add 1 diced onion, 1 chopped green bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the vegetables become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the measured spices—2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika—to toast them lightly for 1 minute, enhancing their aroma.
Combining Ingredients
Return the browned London Broil to the pot, and follow these steps:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Adds rich depth and moisture |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) | Provides body and acidity |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed | Adds texture and protein |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) | Balances flavor with sweetness |
| Salt | 1.5 teaspoons | Enhances overall taste |
| Black pepper | 0.5 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
- Pour the broth and tomato sauce into the pot.
- Stir in beans and diced tomatoes.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Mix everything well, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pot—we want all those flavorful residues in our chili!
Simmering the Chili
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the Dutch oven partially with a lid.
- Let the chili simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasoning as needed during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- The chili is ready when the London Broil is tender and the flavors meld into a rich, hearty dish with a thick, satisfying texture.
We serve this London Broil Chili hot with your favorite garnishes, like shredded cheddar, fresh cilantro, or creamy avocado slices to add bright, complementary flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Our London Broil Chili shines as a stand-alone meal, but with thoughtful pairings, it becomes an unforgettable dining experience. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate this hearty dish:
- Classic Cornbread
Serve alongside warm, buttery cornbread to balance the rich and spicy flavors of the chili. The sweet crumbly texture complements the robust London broil perfectly.
- Rice or Quinoa
A bed of fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, creating a filling and wholesome plate.
- Tortilla Chips or Warm Flour Tortillas
Crisp tortilla chips add crunch for dipping, while soft flour tortillas let us wrap the chili for easy handheld bites.
- Fresh Garnishes
Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro to add layers of creamy and bright flavor contrast.
- Sliced Avocado or Guacamole
Creamy avocado slices or a spoonful of guacamole bring smooth richness that mellows the chili’s spice.
- Pickled Jalapeños or Hot Sauce
For those who crave extra heat, a few tangy pickled jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce can amp up the chili’s boldness.
We recommend serving portions of about 1½ cups of chili per person with 2 to 3 ounces of one or two of the side accompaniments listed above to create a balanced meal.
| Serving Element | Purpose / Flavor Contrast |
|---|---|
| Cornbread | Sweet, crumbly texture softens spice |
| Rice or Quinoa | Absorbs sauce, adds wholesome carbs |
| Tortilla Chips/Tortillas | Adds crunch or handheld convenience |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | Creamy, sharp flavor boost |
| Sour Cream | Cool, creamy contrast |
| Fresh Cilantro | Bright, herbal freshness |
| Sliced Avocado/Guacamole | Rich, smooth creaminess |
| Pickled Jalapeños/Hot Sauce | Tangy heat enhancement |
“Pairing a steaming bowl of London Broil Chili with cornbread and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese creates the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.”
We suggest serving the chili hot, straight from the pot or slow cooker, to keep the London broil tender and the spices vibrant. This approach ensures every spoonful delivers deep, satisfying warmth ideal for any chilly day.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing London Broil Chili ahead of time enhances its flavor as the spices and meat have time to meld beautifully. Here are our best tips to ensure your chili stays fresh and delicious for later enjoyment.
Make-Ahead Steps
- Cook the chili completely following the recipe instructions.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can dilute the chili.
- Transfer the chili into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to maintain flavor and moisture.
- Label containers with the date so we can track storage time efficiently.
- For best flavor, make the chili 1 to 2 days in advance. This resting period allows the rich spices and tender London broil to marry fully.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Consume within 3 to 4 days to maintain flavor integrity and food safety.
- When reheating, heat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe consumption.
- Stir occasionally while reheating to restore the texture and evenly distribute the heat.
Freezing Instructions
- Cool chili completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or sealable bags. Remove excess air if using bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and freeze at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
- The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months without compromising flavor.
- To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until steaming hot.
| Storage Method | Temperature | Storage Duration | Reheating Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 40°F (4°C) or below | 3 to 4 days | 165°F (74°C) |
| Freezing | 0°F (-18°C) or below | Up to 3 months | 165°F (74°C) |
Additional Tips
- Separate toppings like cheddar, cilantro, and avocado until serving to keep them fresh.
- To preserve chili texture, avoid repeated reheating cycles.
- For quick meals, portion chili into single servings before freezing—this simplifies thawing and reheating.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot for reheating on the stove to prevent scorching.
“London Broil Chili tastes best when flavors have rested_—making it the perfect dish for make-ahead meal planning and effortless reheating.”
Following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips allows us to enjoy this hearty chili full of bold flavors anytime with minimal effort.
Conclusion
London Broil Chili brings a fresh twist to a classic favorite, combining hearty beef with vibrant spices for a satisfying meal. Its versatility makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends.
By prepping ahead and storing properly, we can enjoy rich flavors with minimal effort anytime. Whether served with cornbread or topped with creamy avocado, this chili is sure to become a staple in our recipe collection.
Give it a try and experience how a simple change in ingredients can elevate your chili game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is London Broil Chili?
London Broil Chili is a chili recipe that uses tender London broil instead of ground beef, providing a richer flavor and hearty texture.
What ingredients are essential for London Broil Chili?
Key ingredients include 1.5 pounds of London broil, onions, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, beef broth, and tomato sauce.
What equipment do I need to make London Broil Chili?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, and a large Dutch oven for best results.
How do I prepare the London broil for this chili?
Trim and slice the London broil into thin strips before browning it in a Dutch oven.
How long should I simmer the chili?
Simmer the chili long enough for flavors to meld, usually about 45 minutes to an hour.
Can I make London Broil Chili in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead enhances the flavors and makes it convenient for meal planning.
How should I store leftover chili?
Cool it completely, store in airtight containers, and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
How do I reheat London Broil Chili?
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
What toppings go well with London Broil Chili?
Toppings like cilantro, cheddar cheese, and avocado complement the chili nicely.
What side dishes pair well with London Broil Chili?
Cornbread and tortilla chips are great side options to serve with this chili.