Rachael Ray: Smoky Beef & Bean Chili
Rachael explained that because it’s football season, every couple weeks she’ll make a big pot of chili to enjoy on game day. She shared a fantastic tip to make your meat more crispy, which was to add baking soda. It’s a great way to make sure you’re getting more of a bite in your chili, rather than having it turn mushy! What a fantastic tip! Rachael’s Smoke Beef and Bean chili is a sure hit for any cool day!
To get the recipe for Rachael’s chili, click next page.
Rachael Ray: Smoky Beef & Bean Chili Recipe Ingredients

Rachael whipped up a homemade chili recipe with secret tip to making sure your ground beef stays crisp. (dannohung / Flickr)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 3 C beef stock
- 4 slices meaty bacon or 1/4 lb slab – finely diced
- 2 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp oregano or marjoram
- 4 cloves garlic – chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes with chilies
- 2 tbsp masa harina, polenta or grits, or tortilla crumbs
- 2 lbs ground sirloin
- 4 dried Ancho chilies – seeded, stemmed
- 2 tbsp canola oil or olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp coriander
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 large onion – finely diced
- 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo – pasted or finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire
- 1 15-oz can pinto beans or black beans
For Topping:
- cilantro leaves
- minced white onions
- Fritos
- sour cream or creme fraiche
Rachael Ray: Smoky Beef & Bean Chili Recipe Directions
- Combine meat with baking soda and 2 tbsp water, then let it stand for 30 minuts
- Soak the Anchos in stock over low heat and then pureee in a food processor
- Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high to high heat
- Add oil and bacon, and render for 1-2 minutes
- Add beef and brown and crumble until crispy and dark brown
- Add salt and pepper, dry spices, and then stir to toast them
- Add onions, chipotle paste, and garlic, then cook to soften, 7-8 minutes
- Add tomato paste and stir
- Add Worcestershire, tomatoes, Ancho puree, 2 C water, and beans
- Add masa or corn-meal and simmer to thicken for 20-30 minutes
- Serve in shallow bowls with the toppings of your choice
Melissa Sanchez says
Rachel, this is my favorite chili recipe and it’s so easy to adjust the “heat” without affecting the flavor!