Healthy eating meets bold flavor in this quick and hearty Beer-Braised Brisket Chili. Made with lean beef brisket, fresh aromatics, and a splash of light beer, this dish keeps things nutritious without sacrificing taste. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or health-conscious foodies looking for a satisfying meal that’s ready with minimal prep. Each bite is rich, savory, and perfectly spiced—proof that healthy doesn’t have to mean boring. Treat yourself to a chili that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 8 oz lean beef brisket, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 3/4 cup canned diced tomatoes (no salt added)
- 1/2 cup light beer
Instructions
- Pat the brisket cubes dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
- Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the brisket and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned. Transfer the brisket to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the browned brisket to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes and light beer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the brisket is tender and the flavors have developed.
- After cooking, uncover the pot and simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes if the chili needs thickening. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt if desired.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 250
Protein (g): 23
Fat (g): 11
Carbohydrates (g): 10
Fiber (g): 2
Sugar (g): 3
Sodium (mg): 180
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Beer-Braised Brisket Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place the chili in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to let the chili cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, transfer the chili to a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the chili has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it slightly while reheating. For a quicker method, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, on medium heat, stirring every 30-60 seconds until hot.
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
To elevate this chili while keeping it paleo-friendly, consider adding chopped bell peppers or zucchini to increase the fiber and micronutrient content. Incorporating a small amount of sweet potato or butternut squash can add natural sweetness and beta-carotene. For more protein, mix in shredded chicken or ground turkey alongside the brisket. These additions enhance both flavor and nutrition while staying true to a whole-food, paleo approach.
