Slow Cooked Beef Shin Chilli with Tomato Rice

A rich and hearty bowl of tender slow-cooked beef shin simmered in a spiced chilli sauce with beans, served over fragrant tomato rice. Finished with a dollop of sour cream and tangy pickled onions, this dish delivers deep, comforting flavors perfect for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow cooked beef shin chilli with tomato rice is the ultimate comfort food. The long, slow cooking transforms beef shin into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while the chilli sauce develops complex layers of smoky, spicy flavor. Paired with aromatic tomato rice and creamy, tangy garnishes, this dish is warming, filling, and ideal for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs beef shin, cut into chunks
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained
1 can (14 oz) pinto beans, drained
Salt and pepper to taste

For the tomato rice:
1 cup long-grain rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste

For garnish:
Sour cream
Pickled red onions

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef shin chunks on all sides, then transfer to a slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the chopped tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
4. Stir in the kidney and pinto beans. Cook for another 15 minutes.
5. For the rice, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato paste and garlic powder, stirring for 1 minute. Add the rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Serve the chilli over the tomato rice, topped with sour cream and pickled red onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 8 hours
Total time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Calories: approximately 620 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the chilli for extra vegetables and heat.
• Use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice for added fiber.
• Top with shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco for a cheesy twist.
• Stir in fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Substitute chickpeas or black beans for the kidney or pinto beans for variation.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water as needed. The chilli also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can simmer the beef in a heavy pot or Dutch oven on low heat for about 3-4 hours, until tender.

What cut of beef can I use instead of beef shin?

Beef chuck or brisket are good alternatives that also become tender with slow cooking.

How spicy is this chilli?

The dish has a mild to moderate heat. Adjust the chili powder to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and use additional beans or add lentils, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes.

What sides go well with this dish?

In addition to tomato rice, cornbread, tortilla chips, or a green salad are good accompaniments.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels on broth and seasonings to be sure.

How do I thicken the chilli if it is too liquid?

Simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some of the beans into the sauce.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, cook on high for 4-5 hours, though low and slow yields the best texture.

How can I add a smoky flavor?

The smoked paprika provides smokiness, but you can also add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to the mix.

Can I prepare the rice in advance?

Yes, tomato rice can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving.

Conclusion

Slow cooked beef shin chilli with tomato rice is a rich, satisfying dish that brings bold flavor and comfort to the table. With tender beef, hearty beans, and fragrant rice, it is a complete meal that is perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a hungry crowd. Enjoy every warming, delicious bite.

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