Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli Recipe

  • July 14, 2025

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and filling dish that delivers the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and comforting goodness, Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli is the perfect choice. This recipe combines tender brisket with rich spices and a delightful mix of ingredients that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli

Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli is a slow-cooked, flavorful dish made with tender brisket, tomatoes, kidney beans, and a carefully selected blend of spices. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, providing a deep, hearty flavor that comes from simmering the brisket to perfection while allowing all the spices to meld together.

It is designed to be filling, full of flavor, and ideal for a cozy dinner or even a festive gathering. The slow-cooked brisket brings a melt-in-your-mouth texture that perfectly complements the kick of chili heat, making each bite a burst of rich, savory goodness.

Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver brisket chilli

To make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli, here is a list of the key ingredients you will need:

  1. Brisket (about 1.5 kg or 3.3 lbs) – The star of the dish, offering a tender texture when slow-cooked.
  2. Olive oil – Used for browning the brisket and sautéing the veggies.
  3. Onions (2 large) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of the dish.
  4. Garlic (4 cloves) – For aromatic, savory depth.
  5. Chili peppers (2) – Fresh for a mild heat. Feel free to adjust the number depending on your spice preference.
  6. Ground cumin (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and earthiness.
  7. Ground coriander (1 tsp) – Offers a citrusy note that balances out the richness of the dish.
  8. Smoked paprika (2 tsp) – A smoky, slightly sweet flavor to deepen the chili’s overall taste.
  9. Tomatoes (2 cans of chopped tomatoes, 400g each) – The base of the sauce, contributing a juicy, tangy backdrop.
  10. Kidney beans (2 cans, drained and rinsed) – To provide texture and a hearty feel to the chili.
  11. Beef stock (500 ml) – For rich depth of flavor in the sauce.
  12. Bay leaves (2) – Adds a subtle herby flavor.
  13. Salt and pepper – To season the chili to taste.
  14. Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish) – Adds a fresh contrast to the rich chili.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

  1. Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot – Perfect for slow cooking and ensuring even heat distribution while you brown the meat and simmer the chili.
  2. Sharp knife – For chopping onions, garlic, and chili peppers.
  3. Wooden spoon – To stir the ingredients and ensure even cooking.
  4. Chopping board – For prepping vegetables and herbs.
  5. Lid for the pot – To cover the pot while it simmers, allowing the flavors to meld and the brisket to tenderize.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

  1. Prepare the Brisket: Start by cutting the brisket into manageable chunks. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the brisket with salt and pepper, then brown the pieces of brisket in batches, ensuring that each side gets a good sear for flavor. Once browned, set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices: In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and golden. Add the garlic, chopped chili peppers, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika, stirring for a minute to allow the spices to release their fragrance.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Add the browned brisket back into the pot along with the canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef stock. Throw in the bay leaves and stir to combine. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the brisket is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  4. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaves. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili if needed.
  5. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread for the ultimate chili experience.

Expert Tips

  • Slow and Low: The key to tender brisket is slow cooking. The longer you let it simmer, the more tender and flavorful the brisket will become.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you like it extra spicy, add more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. Alternatively, reduce the number of chilies for a milder version.
  • Rest the Chili: Like many stews and slow-cooked dishes, this chili tastes even better the next day. If you have time, let it sit overnight and reheat before serving to allow the flavors to develop further.
  • Freezing: This chili freezes well, so if you make a large batch, you can portion out leftovers and store them in airtight containers for up to three months.

Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli is a perfect dish for anyone who loves rich, slow-cooked flavors with a bit of heat. Tender brisket, vibrant spices, and hearty beans come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor the flavors of a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli

jamie oliver brisket chilli

Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli is a rich, hearty dish that combines slow-cooked beef with a punchy blend of spices and vegetables. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility.

You can tweak it to suit your personal preferences or experiment with different ingredients to add a fresh twist. Here are some easy variations to try:.

  1. Vegetarian Brisket Chilli: For a vegetarian or plant-based version, replace the brisket with plant-based meat alternatives such as lentils, mushrooms, or tempeh. Mushrooms, especially, lend a meaty texture that pairs well with the spices in chilli. Add some smoked paprika for depth and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  2. Spicy Southwest Style: For those who love their chilli with a kick, increase the heat by adding chopped jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. This variation will introduce a smokier, more intense flavour. You can also add a splash of lime juice for a fresh, zesty contrast.
  3. Slow Cooker Brisket Chilli: If you want to make the cooking process even more hands-off, consider adapting Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli for a slow cooker. Brown the brisket first to build flavour, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the spices, beans, and vegetables. Let it cook on low for 8 hours or until the brisket is fall-apart tender.
  4. BBQ Style Brisket Chilli: For a more Southern-inspired version, add a couple of tablespoons of BBQ sauce to the chilli as it simmers. This variation will infuse the dish with a tangy sweetness that pairs well with the smoky spices. Top it off with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
  5. Beef & Pork Brisket Chilli: For a more complex meat base, combine brisket with ground pork. The pork adds richness and a slightly different flavour profile, enhancing the overall depth of the chilli. This combination is especially great if you like a fattier, more decadent chilli.
  6. Chilli with Extra Veggies: If you want to boost the nutrition and fibre content, add extra vegetables to the pot. Diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini can be incorporated. These vegetables not only add nutrition but also contribute to the dish’s complexity in terms of taste and texture.
  7. Smoked Brisket Chilli: For a truly unique and flavour-packed experience, consider using smoked brisket. The additional smokiness will give the chilli an even deeper, more robust flavour profile. Pair it with a bit of fresh cilantro and sour cream for a contrast in textures.

With these easy variations, you can transform Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli to match any mood or dietary need, keeping it fresh and exciting each time you make it.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftovers, especially a dish like brisket chilli, proper storage is essential to maintain its flavours and quality. Here are some best practices to follow:

  1. Cool It Down Quickly: After you’ve finished cooking, allow the brisket chilli to cool to room temperature within two hours. To speed up the cooling process, transfer it to a shallow container. This will help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure the chilli stays safe for storage.
  2. Store in Airtight Containers: Once cooled, transfer your brisket chilli to an airtight container. This will preserve the flavours and prevent the chilli from absorbing any unwanted smells from other foods in the fridge. Make sure the lid is securely fastened to maintain freshness.
  3. Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the leftovers within the next 3-4 days, storing the chilli in the fridge is your best option. It should be kept at or below 40°F (4°C) to ensure it remains safe and tasty. Remember, reheating the chilli should always be done thoroughly to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
  4. Freezing for Longer Storage: If you won’t be eating the chilli within a few days, freezing it is a great way to extend its shelf life. Ladle the cooled chilli into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave about an inch of space at the top of the container for expansion as the chilli freezes. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  5. Reheating Leftovers: When reheating chilli, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to make sure it’s safe to eat. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. For frozen leftovers, it’s best to thaw the chilli overnight in the fridge before reheating it. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen, but this will take longer.
  6. Avoid Storing with Toppings: If you plan to store leftovers, keep any toppings, like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs, separate. These toppings can alter in texture or flavour when stored, so it’s better to add them just before serving.

By following these best practices, you’ll not only extend the shelf life of your brisket chilli, but also ensure it remains just as delicious the next time you enjoy it.

What Goes Well With Brisket Chilli?

Brisket chilli, with its rich, meaty, and spicy flavours, is an incredibly versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some ideas for what goes well with brisket chilli:

  1. Cornbread: One of the classic side dishes that pairs beautifully with brisket chilli is cornbread. Its slightly sweet, crumbly texture balances the savoury and spicy flavours of the chilli. Serve it warm with a dollop of butter, and you have a comforting pairing that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
  2. Rice: Serving brisket chilli over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice is an excellent way to absorb all the sauce and add some extra substance to the meal. For added flavour, you could even use cilantro-lime rice or Spanish rice to complement the dish’s bold spices.
  3. Tortilla Chips: If you’re looking for something crunchy to pair with the soft and rich chilli, tortilla chips are a great choice. The saltiness and crunchiness of the chips provide a nice contrast to the hearty texture of the chilli. You can also use the chips for dipping into the chilli.
  4. Grilled Vegetables: Pairing brisket chilli with grilled vegetables like peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can add freshness and a slight charred flavour, creating a well-rounded meal. The smokiness of the grilled veggies will enhance the depth of the chilli.
  5. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can help balance the heat of the chilli. The creaminess adds richness to each bite, and the tanginess cuts through the spice, making the chilli even more enjoyable.
  6. Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with crisp greens like romaine, arugula, or mixed greens provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the chilli. A vinaigrette dressing with a hint of lime or lemon can also add a nice zesty element.
  7. Pickled Jalapeños or Onions: Adding a tangy, spicy element through pickled jalapeños or onions can bring an extra layer of flavour to the meal. Their acidity works wonders to cut through the richness of the brisket and adds a delightful punch.
  8. Beer or a Margarita: For a beverage pairing, consider serving brisket chilli with a cold, crisp beer. A light lager or pilsner will complement the dish’s spicy and meaty characteristics. Alternatively, a margarita, with its tangy lime and salt, makes for a refreshing drink that pairs well with the bold flavours of the chilli.

These sides and beverages will not only complement the flavours of your brisket chilli, but also make for a diverse and satisfying meal that appeals to all tastes.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli is an incredibly versatile and flavour-packed dish that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you decide to go for a spicy twist, a vegetarian version, or even experiment with different meats, the core flavours of slow-cooked brisket, smoky spices, and rich sauce remain the heart of the dish.

By following best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy this hearty meal again in the future, keeping its flavours as delicious as when it was freshly made. And with the right pairings, whether it’s cornbread, rice, or a tangy salad, brisket chilli can be transformed into a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

FAQs

What Cut Of Beef Does Jamie Oliver Use In His Brisket Chilli Recipe?

Jamie Oliver uses beef brisket for this chilli recipe. Brisket is a flavorful, tough cut that becomes tender and rich after slow cooking, making it ideal for absorbing the bold spices in the dish.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

The total cooking time is approximately 4 to 5 hours. The brisket needs to be slow-cooked for 3 to 4 hours until it is tender and shreddable, followed by additional simmering once the other ingredients are added.

Can I Make This Brisket Chilli In Advance?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s brisket chilli is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavours deepen after resting overnight in the fridge, making it even tastier when reheated the next day.

What Are The Key Spices And Flavourings In Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

Key flavourings include smoked paprika, cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, garlic, and fresh chillies. He also uses fresh coriander stalks, tinned tomatoes, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Does Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli Include Beans?

Yes, the recipe typically includes kidney beans or mixed beans added toward the end of cooking. They provide texture and help balance the rich meatiness of the brisket.

Can I Cook This Brisket Chilli In A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. You can adapt the recipe by searing the brisket and sautéing the aromatics first, then transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the brisket is fork-tender.

What Toppings Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

Common toppings include sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped fresh coriander, sliced chillies, grated cheese, avocado slices, and lime wedges. Serve with rice, tortilla chips, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Can I Freeze Leftovers Of Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave.

Is There A Vegetarian Alternative To Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

While Jamie’s original recipe focuses on beef, you can create a vegetarian version using lentils, mushrooms, and beans to mimic the texture. Still use the same spice base for depth of flavour.

What Drinks Pair Well With Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Chilli?

Robust drinks like dark beer (e.g., stout or porter), bold red wines (like Zinfandel or Shiraz), or smoky mezcal cocktails pair wonderfully with the rich, spicy profile of the brisket chilli.