I was in the mood for Chili but wanted to do something different than using Ground Beef or Ground Turkey. My wife came back from getting groceries and bought some stew meat so made this Chili Rojo.
Rojo is Spanish for Red which is the “color” of this delicious chili recipe.
Serving Suggestions
I always serve cornbread with my homemade chili. Always. If you have the time I suggest you try one of my delicious Cornbread Recipes.
My favorite cornbread recipe is my Fabulous Buttermilk Cornbread recipe.
What makes this chili recipe unique is the use of condensed French onion soup. The soup is typically made with beef broth which is perfect for this beef chili.
I like to use beef stew meat for this recipe to save a little time but you can use a chuck or round roast and cube it yourself. Try to trim as much of the fat as you can while you are at it.
Tips
- The use of the water is completely optional. The Chili will thicken up as it simmers. Use less water if you prefer a thicker chili.
Gather your Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make this Chili Rojo recipe. For ingredient amounts please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Beef Stew Meat – Or any other cut of beef cut into cubes
- Vegetable Oil – Olive Oil or Canola Oil are good substitutes
- Garlic Cloves – you can add more to taste
- Yellow Onion – You can also use sweet brown onion
- Tomato Paste – I prefer Hunt’s brand but you can use any brand
- Salt – needed for most recipes
- Paprika – adds a mild, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor, along with vibrant colors
- Green Chilies – your choice on what heat level you want to use for this chili
- Condensed French Onion Soup – You can also use regular condensed onion soup if needed
- Pinto Beans – Red Kidney beans would also be a good option.
- Ground Cumin – Brings a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor
- Water – This is optional based on how “soupy” you like your chili
How to Make Chili Rojo
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in the oil. Optionally drain any excess grease.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Cover the pot and let simmer for at least 1/2 hours.
- Garnish with your favorite chili toppings.
Printable Recipe Card
Chili Rojo
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Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef Stew Meat, 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 3 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 small Yellow Onion, diced
- 6 oz Tomato Paste
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 1 Tbsp Paprika
- 7 oz Green Chilies, diced
- 10 ½ oz Condensed French Onion Soup
- 15 oz Pinto Beans, rinsed and drained
- ¼ Tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 Cup Water, optional
Toppings (optional)
- Tortilla Chips, crushed
- Sour Cream
- Shredded Cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in the oil. Optionally drain any excess grease.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Cover the pot and let simmer for at least 1/2 hours.
- Garnish with your favorite chili toppings.
Never heard of using French onion soup in a chili before but it does taste pretty good!