If you’re like me, you enjoy cozy nights where a comforting bowl of something warm hits just the right spot. I often find myself reaching for chili, especially on chilly evenings or during busy weekends.
This Asian-inspired chili is a delightful twist that goes perfectly with fluffy rice or even on a bed of crunchy lettuce, making a fantastic meal or even a snack. Throw in some spring rolls or crispy wontons on the side, and you’ve got a feast that friends and family will rave about!
Chili has held a place of honor in kitchens worldwide, but there are countless ways to spice it up. Enter my Asian-inspired chili—a dish that combines the heartiness of traditional chili with bold Asian flavors.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of chili or dipping your toes into new flavor profiles, this recipe is bound to impress. It’s simple, wholesome, and just the right amount of spicy.
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What is Asian Inspired Chili Recipe?
This Asian-inspired chili blends the classic elements of chili—meat, beans, and tomatoes—with ingredients typical in Asian cuisine, such as sesame oil, hoisin sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder. The result? A flavorful, rich stew that beautifully marries different culinary traditions and is sure to warm both your stomach and your spirit.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe works for several reasons. First, it emphasizes simplicity. With straightforward steps and easily-found ingredients, you don’t need to be a culinary whiz to whip this up. Secondly, the careful balance of spices and sauces enhances flavor without overpowering the dish. Lastly, it’s adaptable. You can easily tweak this chili to suit your taste buds or dietary requirements while preserving its integrity.
How Does It Taste?
Expect layers of flavor that hit every taste bud. The subtle sweetness from hoisin sauce complements the savory ground beef beautifully, while the spices—especially the ginger and five-spice powder—bring warmth and depth. You’ll get a satisfying kick from the Thai chili sauce without it being too overwhelming. Each bite creates a dance of sweet, spicy, and savory that leaves you wanting another bowl.
What Sets This Recipe Apart?
This isn’t your regular chili—what sets it apart is the combination of rich Asian flavors with traditional chili ingredients. Instead of relying on just the usual spices, this recipe embraces a wider palette, utilizing ingredients like sesame oil and dry sherry. It’s a unique fusion that invites you to forget what you know about chili and dive into a whole new experience.
The Ingredients
Curious about what goes into this delicious pot of chili? Here’s your shopping list:
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 scallions, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken if preferred)
– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
– 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup dry sherry
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Thai-style chili sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar or sugar substitute (like Splenda)
– 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (16-ounce) can red beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– Optional: 1 tablespoon of lime juice (to brighten flavors)
Ingredients From : food.com
How to Make Asian Inspired Chili Recipe?
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for a delightful, warming bowl of chili. Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making it all the time!
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies
In a large pot, drizzle in the sesame oil and warm it over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chopped onions and red bell pepper. Stir them around until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add your ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t skimp here—browning the meat adds depth to the flavor.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Once everything is nicely browned, it’s time to add your touches of flavor. Sprinkle in the minced ginger and Chinese five-spice powder. Give it a good stir to coat the meat and veggies with those wonderful spices.
Step 4: Pour In the Goodness
Now, it’s time to mix in all your other ingredients. Add your dry sherry, hoisin sauce, chili powder, soy sauce, Thai chili sauce, sugar, diced tomatoes, red beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all these flavorful ingredients.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Raise the heat a bit and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling happily, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
Allow the chili to simmer gently for about 1 hour. This step is crucial—it melds all the flavors together and gives you that delightful chili experience. Stir occasionally and adjust the heat as necessary to keep it at a gentle simmer.
Notes
– Play with Protein: Use turkey or chicken to lighten the dish or go plant-based with lentils or mushrooms.
– Freshen It Up: A splash of lime juice right before serving elevates the flavors.
– Spice Adjustment: Add more or less Thai chili sauce based on your heat preference.
– Storage: This chili freezes beautifully, so make extra and stash some for later.
– Make Ahead: The flavors deepen and improve when made a day in advance, making it a perfect dish for leftovers.
How Do You Store This Asian Inspired Chili Recipe?
Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. The chili can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Sides for Asian Inspired Chili Recipe
– Steamed Jasmine Rice: Offers a beautiful backdrop to absorb the chili’s flavors.
– Crispy Wontons: Add a lovely crunch and are fantastic for scooping up chili.
– Asian Slaw: A fresh, tangy side that cuts through the rich chili.
– Cornbread Muffins: A sweet complement to the heat of the chili.
– Chilled Cucumber Salad: Cool, refreshing, and deliciously crunchy alongside the warmth of the dish.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
– Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
– Dry Sherry: Swap with white wine or broth if you’re out of sherry.
– Hoisin Sauce: You can use teriyaki sauce in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
– Chili Powder: Blend cumin and paprika if you’re running low on chili powder.
– Red Beans: Black beans or pinto beans work as great substitutes!
Asian Inspired Chili Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- cutting board
- knife
- measuring cups
- spoons
Ingredients
- Curious about what goes into this delicious pot of chili? Here’s your shopping list:
- – 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- – 1 red bell pepper diced
- – 1 medium onion chopped
- – 2 scallions sliced
- – 3 cloves garlic minced
- – 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey/chicken if preferred
- – 2 tablespoons fresh ginger minced
- – 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- – 1/4 cup dry sherry
- – 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- – 2 tablespoons chili powder
- – 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- – 2 tablespoons Thai-style chili sauce
- – 1 teaspoon sugar or sugar substitute like Splenda
- – 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
- – 1 16-ounce can red beans, drained and rinsed
- – 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– Optional: 1 tablespoon of lime juice (to brighten flavors)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Your Veggies
- In a large pot, drizzle in the sesame oil and warm it over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chopped onions and red bell pepper. Stir them around until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute. The smell alone will make your mouth water.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
- Add your ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t skimp here—browning the meat adds depth to the flavor.
Step 3: Spice It Up
- Once everything is nicely browned, it’s time to add your touches of flavor. Sprinkle in the minced ginger and Chinese five-spice powder. Give it a good stir to coat the meat and veggies with those wonderful spices.
Step 4: Pour In the Goodness
- Now, it’s time to mix in all your other ingredients. Add your dry sherry, hoisin sauce, chili powder, soy sauce, Thai chili sauce, sugar, diced tomatoes, red beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all these flavorful ingredients.
Step 5: Bring to a Boil
- Raise the heat a bit and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling happily, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Step 6: Let It Simmer
- Allow the chili to simmer gently for about 1 hour. This step is crucial—it melds all the flavors together and gives you that delightful chili experience. Stir occasionally and adjust the heat as necessary to keep it at a gentle simmer.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the meat for lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of dry sherry.
2. Is this chili spicy?
The level of spice can easily be adjusted. Start with a smaller amount of Thai chili sauce if you’re cautious, and add more as needed.
3. How can I thicken my chili?
If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer it uncovered for longer, or mash some of the beans into the pot for added thickness.
4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Sauté the veggies and meat first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
5. What should I serve with this chili for a balanced meal?
Pair your chili with a side of leafy greens or steamed veggies to balance out the meal and add extra nutrients.
Conclusion
This Asian-inspired chili is not just a tasty alternative to a classic—it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings Asian flavors to an iconic dish. Whether you want a comforting weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe fits the bill.
I promise it’s going to be a hit, so give it a try and enjoy every delightful spoonful!
