Jamie Oliver Brisket Chilli Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli is his unique twist on the classic chilli con carne. Instead of the usual ground beef, he uses tender, slow-cooked brisket which gives the dish a deeper, richer flavor. Brisket, a cut of meat that’s usually slow-cooked or braised to make it melt-in-your-mouth, elevates this chilli from being a simple stew to a comforting, hearty dish. The long cooking time lets all the spices, tomatoes and tender brisket meld together, creating a thick, flavorful sauce that’s both satisfying and complex.

What makes this chilli stand out is how it balances smokiness, spice and sweetness. Jamie’s recipe incorporates a mix of fresh and dried chillies, along with a handful of spices, including cinnamon and smoked paprika, giving the dish that unforgettable depth. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

Jamie Oliver Brisket Chilli Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli, you’ll need a few quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

1. Beef Brisket – The star of the dish. It should be about 1-2 kg of brisket, ideally cut into chunks. This cut of beef has enough fat to create a rich, tender texture after slow cooking.
2. Chopped Tomatoes – For the base of the sauce. You’ll need a couple of cans which help create that thick, luscious consistency.
3. Onions – Two large onions, finely chopped. Onions are key for building the savory, sweet depth in the base of the chilli.
4. Garlic – A few cloves, minced. This will add a fragrant foundation to the flavour.
5. Chillies – A combination of dried chipotle chillies (for smokiness) and fresh red chillies (for a bit of heat) works wonders. Adjust the number based on your heat tolerance.
6. Spices – Smoked paprika, cumin, ground coriander, cinnamon and a pinch of cocoa powder for extra depth. These spices give the chilli its aromatic, complex flavor.
7. Beef Stock – For that extra richness and moisture during the slow-cooking process.
8. Canned Beans – Typically kidney beans or black beans. You’ll need a couple of cans, drained and rinsed.
9. Fresh Herbs – Coriander or cilantro for garnish, adding freshness and a bit of brightness to balance the heaviness of the stew.
10. Olive Oil – For frying and sautéing the onions and garlic.
11. Salt & Pepper – For seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need anything too fancy for Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli. Here’s a rundown of the equipment:

1. Large Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot – This is essential for slow-cooking the brisket and getting that beautiful caramelization on the meat.
2. Sharp Knife – To chop the brisket into bite-sized pieces and prepare the onions and garlic.
3. Chopping Board – For all your veggie prep work.
4. Wooden Spoon – For stirring the chilli and making sure everything combines well.
5. Lid – For your pot. You’ll need this to cover the pot while the brisket simmers slowly to tenderize.
6. Can Opener – To open your canned beans and tomatoes.
7. Strainer – For rinsing the beans.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli

Now that you’ve got the ingredients and gear, here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Brown the Brisket: Start by heating some olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chunks of brisket in batches, ensuring they’re seared well on all sides. This helps lock in the flavors and gives you that deep brown crust that’s packed with flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Once the brisket is browned, set it aside. In the same pot, toss in your chopped onions and garlic. Sauté them until soft and golden. This forms the aromatic base of your chilli.
3. Add the Spices: Now, throw in the smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon and ground coriander. Stir them into the onions and garlic for a minute or two until the spices release their fragrance.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Stock: Pour in your chopped tomatoes and beef stock. Stir everything to combine, making sure the brisket is well-coated with the liquid.
5. Simmer Slowly: Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The brisket should break down into tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces and the sauce should thicken up nicely.
6. Add the Beans: Once the brisket is cooked through, add your beans. Let the chilli simmer for another 20 minutes so the beans can soak up all the flavors.
7. Taste and Adjust: Give it a final taste and add salt, pepper or a little more chili if you like it spicier. You can also adjust the richness with a small splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar if the acidity of the tomatoes is too sharp.
8. Serve: Ladle the chilli into bowls and garnish with fresh coriander. You can serve it with some sour cream, shredded cheese or over a bed of rice or tortillas for a complete meal.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli taught me a lot about the power of slow-cooked meats. Brisket, in particular, shines when you give it time to break down and become tender. The layers of spice are so much richer than a basic chilli. And I was surprised by how well the cinnamon and cocoa worked in the dish. It’s not a flavor combo you’d usually associate with a chilli but they add this subtle depth that takes it to another level.

The key takeaway here is patience. It’s easy to rush a chilli but slow cooking this dish gives you the kind of comfort that comes from spending time in the kitchen. It’s one of those meals that gets better the longer it sits, so it’s perfect for leftovers.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli

Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli is already pretty solid but if you’re feeling experimental, a few tweaks can take it to the next level. Here’s how to make it your own:

1. Chili Heat Levels: If you like it extra spicy, throw in a couple of fresh jalapeños or even a serrano pepper for a sharper heat. Or, if you prefer a smoky kick, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can add depth and heat without overwhelming the flavor.
2. Meat Variety: While brisket is rich and tender, you could swap it for other cuts like short rib or chuck roast for a slightly different texture. If you’re in the mood for something leaner, turkey or chicken thighs work great, too.
3. Herb Power: Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while the chilli simmers can add a subtle earthiness. You could also sprinkle a bit of fresh cilantro or parsley on top just before serving to brighten things up.
4. Sweetness Balance: If you like a hint of sweetness to balance the heat, try stirring in a spoonful of dark brown sugar or a splash of maple syrup. Alternatively, throw in some roasted sweet potato or carrots for a natural, subtle sweetness.
5. Beans and Veggies: Some people love beans in their chilli, so adding a can of kidney beans or black beans wouldn’t hurt if you’re looking for a heartier, more filling dish. You can also toss in some diced bell peppers or even zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Brisket chilli is one of those dishes that tastes better the next day, so it’s totally worth making extra. But proper storage is key to keeping that deliciousness intact:

1. Cool It Down Quickly: After serving, let the chilli cool at room temperature for no more than two hours. If you leave it out too long, it could attract bacteria.
2. Air-tight Containers: Store leftovers in airtight containers to preserve freshness. Glass containers work better than plastic ones as they don’t retain odors or stains. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Freezing It: If you want to keep it for longer, chilli freezes really well. Portion out your leftover chilli into freezer-safe bags or containers. Just make sure to label them with the date, so you know when to use it. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it again, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
4. Reheating: When reheating, do it slowly on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a little water or stock to bring it back to the right consistency.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

This chilli is a meal on its own but it’s also a great excuse to pair it with some delicious sides.

1. Cornbread: There’s something about the sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread that perfectly complements the rich, spicy brisket chilli. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a bit of cheese or jalapeños to your cornbread mix.
2. Rice: If you want to add a bit of bulk to your meal, serve the chilli over a bed of rice. White rice, brown rice or even cilantro-lime rice can work. It’s a great way to soak up all that savory sauce.
3. Tortillas or Chips: For a Tex-Mex vibe, serve your chilli with tortilla chips or even warm flour tortillas. The crunchy chips can act as a vessel to scoop up the chilli and they add a fun texture contrast.
4. Fresh Salad: To cut through the richness of the chilli, serve it with a refreshing side salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, red onion and a zesty lime dressing will balance the flavors perfectly.
5. Sour Cream & Cheese: Don’t forget the classic toppings! A dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese or even a squeeze of lime will elevate each bite and provide a cool contrast to the heat.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli Different From Other Recipes?

Jamie uses slow-cooked brisket, which gives the chilli a rich, tender texture. The addition of chipotle and a variety of spices adds deep flavor, making it more complex.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli In Advance?

Yes! It’s actually even better the next day. The flavors meld together, so it’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for a party.

What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

Try it with some fluffy rice, cornbread, or a dollop of sour cream and fresh coriander. It’s also great with tortilla chips for dipping.