Chili Con Carne
Chili Con Carne is one of those comforting dishes that evokes warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this hearty dish is packed with flavor and can easily be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this recipe will take your chili game to the next level. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Chili Con Carne!
Reasons to Love Chili Con Carne
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices, beef, and beans creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Versatile: You can customize the heat level and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish will keep you satisfied for hours.
- Easy to Prepare: With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Perfect for Batch Cooking: Chili Con Carne freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Ingredient Rundown
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the chili.
- 1 kilogram ground beef (minced beef): The hearty base of this dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 2 cloves garlic: A must-have for that aromatic foundation.
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- 2 red bird’s eye chillis, finely chopped: For a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
- 250 grams red kidney beans, canned, rinsed: Adds texture and protein while balancing the flavors.
- 250 milliliters tomato soup, canned, not diluted: A shortcut to a rich tomato base.
- 400 grams peeled tomatoes, canned: The heart of the chili, providing moisture and flavor.
- 1 green capsicum, diced: For sweetness and crunch.
- Tabasco sauce: To taste, for those who crave extra heat.
- 1 tablespoon cumin, ground: Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon coriander, ground: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 tablespoon thyme, dried: A subtle herb that rounds out the taste.
- 1/4 tablespoon chili powder, dried: Boosts the chili flavor and adds depth.
- Sea salt flakes: To taste, enhances all the flavors.
- Pepper, grinded: Freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for simmering and developing flavors.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the meat.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping vegetables.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate spice measurements.
- Canned Goods Opener: To easily access your canned ingredients.
Chili Con Carne: How It’s Done
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your wooden spoon and cook until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, thyme, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatic oils. This step is crucial for building layers of flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate the Heat
Add the finely chopped red bird’s eye chillis, diced green capsicum, and a pinch of sea salt and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables soften for about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the Tomatoes
Add the canned peeled tomatoes, tomato soup, and rinsed red kidney beans to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer you allow it to simmer, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Final Touches
Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add a few dashes of Tabasco sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to incorporate any new flavors.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
- Winter Warmer: Serve with cornbread or over baked potatoes for a filling meal.
- Summer Chill: Serve it cold as a topping for nachos or in tacos with fresh toppings.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based twist.
- Spice Lover’s Delight: Add additional chili varieties or hot sauce for an intense kick.
Cook’s Commentary
- Chili Con Carne is incredibly forgiving; feel free to play around with spices and ingredients based on what you have available.
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to evaporate some of the liquid.
- You can add other beans such as black beans or pinto beans for variety.
- Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or shredded cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the chili if it thickens too much. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Quick Questions
Can I use turkey instead of beef for Chili Con Carne?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.
What can I serve with Chili Con Carne?
It pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it over nachos for a fun twist!
How do I make Chili Con Carne less spicy?
Reduce the number of bird’s eye chillis and skip the Tabasco sauce. You can also add a dollop of sour cream when serving to cool down the heat.
Can I make Chili Con Carne in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
More Recipes You’ll Love
That’s a Wrap
Chili Con Carne is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, warmth, and comfort. With its rich history and adaptability, this dish can be a staple in any kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something hearty, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a bowl of Chili Con Carne that will warm both your heart and your soul. Happy cooking!
Chili Con Carne
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with your wooden spoon and cook until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, thyme, and chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromatic oils.
- Add the finely chopped red bird's eye chillis, diced green capsicum, and a pinch of sea salt and pepper. Stir everything together, letting the vegetables soften for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the canned peeled tomatoes, tomato soup, and rinsed red kidney beans to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add a few dashes of Tabasco sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to incorporate any new flavors.
Notes
- Chili Con Carne freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for the last few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado, or cheese for added flavor.
