Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is a mouthwatering twist on the classic cottage pie, combining rich, spicy beef with a golden, crispy crumble topping. The Hairy Bikers, renowned for their hearty and approachable cooking style, created this dish as a comforting yet flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

The dish begins with a deliciously spiced minced beef filling cooked with onions, garlic, and a kick of chili. Then, it’s topped with a savory, buttery crumble made of flour, butter, and cheese, creating an irresistible contrast between the spicy beef mixture and the crisp, crumbly topping. This hearty dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat paired with the comforting textures of a classic crumble.

Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Beef Filling

• 500g minced beef (preferably lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil for frying

For The Crumble Topping

• 150g plain flour
• 75g butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g grated cheese (cheddar works well, but you can experiment with others)
• 2 tbsp oats (optional, for added texture)
• A pinch of salt

Equipment Needed

To successfully prepare this dish, you will need a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment:

• A large frying pan or skillet
• A wooden spoon for stirring
• A baking dish or ovenproof dish to assemble the crumble
• A mixing bowl for preparing the crumble topping
• A grater for the cheese
• A sharp knife and chopping board for chopping the vegetables
• A can opener for the tomatoes
• An oven preheated to 180°C (350°F)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble

Follow these simple steps to make the Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble:

1. Prepare The Beef Filling

   • Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens and turns translucent (about 5 minutes).
   • Add the garlic and chopped chili to the pan, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
   • Add the minced beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
   • Stir in the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Simmer the mixture on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

2. Prepare The Crumble Topping

   • In a separate mixing bowl, combine the plain flour and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and rub them into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
   • Stir in the grated cheese and oats (if using) for extra texture.
   • Set the crumble topping aside.

3. Assemble The Dish

   • Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
   • Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the beef mixture, covering it completely.

4. Bake The Chilli Beef Crumble

   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
   • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

5. Serve And Enjoy

   • Serve the Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble hot, with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To take your Chilli Beef Crumble to the next level, here are a few helpful tips:

• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you want a milder version, you can reduce the amount of chili or remove the seeds before adding it to the dish. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef filling.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to experiment by adding more vegetables to the filling. Sweetcorn, mushrooms, or zucchini would work beautifully alongside the beef and peppers.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Cheese Varieties: Try using different cheeses for the crumble topping to suit your taste. Strong cheeses like blue cheese or smoked cheddar can add a unique flavor.
• Crispier Topping: For an extra-crispy topping, consider broiling the dish for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is a flavorful, comforting dish that beautifully combines spicy beef and a crispy, cheesy crumble topping. With its easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with a hearty, satisfying meal.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal in advance, this dish will surely become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll enjoy a plate full of bold flavors and delightful textures in no time!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is a deliciously hearty and comforting dish that combines the richness of chilli con carne with a crispy, buttery crumble topping. However, if you want to mix things up a little bit or add some variety to the classic recipe, there are several easy and fun twists you can try!

1. Vegetarian Version: For those who prefer a meatless alternative, you can swap the beef for lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of both. Lentils provide a hearty texture, while mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor that mimics the richness of the beef. You can also try adding tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed option. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to bring out the same robust flavors.
2. Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of heat, you can turn up the spice factor by adding extra chillies, perhaps a combination of fresh red chillies, smoked paprika, and even a few dashes of hot sauce. Alternatively, to balance out the heat, a spoonful of honey or brown sugar can add a lovely sweet contrast to the dish.
3. Cheese Variation: For a cheesy twist, mix some grated cheddar or parmesan into the crumble topping before baking. This will create a beautifully golden, cheesy crust. You could also experiment with a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even a tangy blue cheese to add richness and complexity to the flavor profile.
4. Add More Veg: To increase the vegetable content, consider adding finely chopped carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers to the beef mixture. These vegetables will contribute both sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall flavor and making the dish even more nutritious.
5. Gluten-Free Version: If you’re looking to make the dish gluten-free, simply swap the flour in the crumble topping for a gluten-free variety, such as rice flour or a store-bought gluten-free flour blend. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping if you want a crunchier texture.
6. Herb and Spice Enhancements: While the original recipe calls for a straightforward seasoning mix, you can add extra herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a bay leaf to deepen the flavor. A touch of cumin or coriander can also give the dish a slightly smoky and aromatic edge.

These variations allow you to play with textures, flavors, and heat levels, making the Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble even more customizable to your tastes and dietary preferences!

How To Properly Store Leftovers

The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble makes for excellent leftovers, as the flavors tend to improve and meld together over time. To keep your leftovers fresh and safe to eat, here are some essential tips:

1. Cooling: Before storing leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature. It’s important not to leave the food out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. If you plan to store the dish for an extended period, aim to cool it as quickly as possible by spreading it out on a shallow tray or pan.
2. Storage Containers: Use airtight containers to store your leftovers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers are excellent for this purpose, as they will prevent moisture loss and ensure that the dish retains its flavor and texture.
3. Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to place the containers in the coldest part of the fridge to maintain freshness. Label the containers with the date they were stored so you can keep track of their shelf life.
4. Freezing: If you want to keep your leftovers for a longer period, freezing is a great option. The chilli beef crumble can be frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to portion the dish into smaller servings for easy reheating. Be sure to leave a small gap at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
5. Reheating: To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or place the entire dish in the oven. If using the oven, cover it with foil to keep the crumble topping from drying out. You might need to add a little splash of water or broth to maintain moisture while reheating.

By following these storage and reheating guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy your leftover Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble without compromising on flavor or texture.

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble?

The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is a rich and filling dish on its own, but it can be even better when paired with complementary sides that balance its bold flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside your crumble:

1. Rice or Couscous: A fluffy bowl of steamed rice or couscous can serve as the perfect base for the chilli beef mixture, soaking up all the delicious sauce. Brown rice or wild rice adds a nuttier flavor and more texture, while couscous offers a light and quick-to-prepare option.
2. Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment, adding crunch and flavor. The buttery, garlicky bread works wonders with the rich beef filling and helps to mop up any extra sauce left on the plate.
3. Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh, vibrant salad made with mixed greens such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale offers a refreshing contrast to the heavy richness of the crumble. You can toss in some sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette to keep it light and tangy.
4. Sautéed Vegetables: For a more substantial side, sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli are an excellent option. They add color, flavor, and extra nutrients to the meal. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the vegetables even further.
5. Cornbread: Cornbread, with its slightly sweet flavor and soft crumb, is a classic pairing for chilli dishes. Its comforting texture pairs beautifully with the hearty beef crumble, and you can even serve it warm with a dollop of butter on top for extra indulgence.
6. Sour Cream and Guacamole: To add a creamy and cooling element, serve some sour cream or guacamole on the side. The coolness of these condiments balances the spiciness of the chilli, making each bite more satisfying.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with fun twists, this comforting meal is sure to please any crowd.

Properly storing leftovers ensures you can enjoy this dish again and again, while pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, this dish delivers a rich, flavorful experience that’s hard to beat.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble?

The Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble requires lean minced beef, onions, garlic, bell peppers, canned tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. For the crumble topping, you’ll need flour, butter, and cheese, making it a rich, hearty dish with plenty of flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble?

The total cooking time for the Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble is approximately 1 hour, including 30-40 minutes for simmering the beef mixture and 20-30 minutes to bake the crumble topping in the oven. However, the exact time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your beef mixture.

Can I Make Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Hairy Bikers’ Chilli Beef Crumble in advance. You can make the beef mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before adding the crumble topping and baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled dish and bake it directly from the freezer, though you may need to extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes.