Chili Con Carne Recipe

Introduction

Chili Con Carne, often referred to simply as “chili,” is a hearty, flavorful dish that has become a beloved comfort food in many cultures around the world. This spicy, rich stew made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and an assortment of aromatic spices is perfect for warming up on a cold day or for feeding a crowd during a gathering. Whether served as a main dish with cornbread or over rice, Chili Con Carne is a versatile and satisfying meal that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious.

Originating from the United States, Chili Con Carne has many variations, but the base of this dish remains the same: tender, savory meat, combined with beans (optional in some versions), and a flavorful mix of spices that bring it all together. It’s the kind of dish that can be made in large batches, is great for meal prep, and can be customized with different heat levels or extra ingredients depending on your personal preferences. This guide will walk you through the process of making a delicious pot of Chili Con Carne and share helpful tips, serving ideas, and fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Chili Con Carne

• Rich, Hearty Flavor: Chili Con Carne is packed with layers of flavor from the combination of spices, ground beef, and tomatoes. The long cooking time allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a comforting, satisfying dish that’s full of savory goodness.
• Customizable Spice Level: Whether you like it mild or fiery hot, Chili Con Carne is completely customizable. You can adjust the amount of chili powder, peppers, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
• Comforting and Filling: The combination of meat, beans, and vegetables makes this dish a complete meal that’s perfect for satisfying your hunger. It’s a filling, one-pot wonder that’s ideal for chilly nights or casual get-togethers.
• Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor, Chili Con Carne is easy to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and you don’t need any special equipment to get the job done. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Chili Con Carne is a great dish for large gatherings, potlucks, or parties. It’s easy to scale up, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 6-8g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Chili Con Carne:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, minced (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: 1 tablespoon hot sauce (for extra heat)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar (to balance the heat)
• Toppings (optional): sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, cilantro, jalapeño slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all the ingredients and chopping the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. If you’re using jalapeño peppers for extra heat, make sure to mince them finely and remove the seeds if you prefer a milder chili. Drain and rinse the beans to remove any excess sodium, and set aside. Open the cans of diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and measure out the beef broth.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it cooks evenly. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary, but leave a little for flavor.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot with the beef. If you like a spicier chili, now is the time to add the minced jalapeño pepper. Sauté the vegetables with the beef for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent.

4. Add the Spices

Next, add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the pot. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef and vegetables. Allow the spices to cook for about 1-2 minutes, as this helps to release their aromatic oils and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

5. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine, allowing the tomatoes to mix with the beef and spices. Pour in the beef broth, and stir again to create a rich, flavorful base. If you like your chili a bit thinner, you can add more broth or even a bit of water.

6. Simmer the Chili

Once all the ingredients are in the pot, bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, and let the chili simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add a tablespoon of hot sauce during this step.

7. Add the Beans

After the chili has simmered, add the kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Stir to combine, and continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes to heat the beans through and allow them to absorb some of the chili’s flavors. If you’d like to balance the heat and acidity, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the pot at this point.

8. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

After the chili has finished cooking, give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. If the chili is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce.

9. Serve the Chili

Ladle the chili into bowls, and garnish with your choice of toppings. Classic toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Serve the chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chili Con Carne

• Use Fresh Ground Beef: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ground beef. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the chili.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the jalapeño pepper. If you like it spicy, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to increase the heat.
• Cook Low and Slow: The longer you simmer the chili, the more the flavors will develop. Don’t rush the cooking process—let the chili simmer for at least an hour to ensure it’s as flavorful as possible.
• Let the Chili Rest: If you have the time, let the chili sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to continue to meld. It often tastes even better the next day!
• Use Canned Tomatoes for Convenience: While fresh tomatoes can be used, canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste provide more consistent flavor and texture.
• Add Extra Beans: If you prefer a heartier chili, feel free to add extra beans, such as pinto beans or white beans, for added texture and protein.

Variations of Chili Con Carne

• Vegetarian Chili: For a meatless version, swap the ground beef for extra beans or lentils. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, and corn, to make the chili even heartier.
• Chili with Sausage: Add some cooked sausage (either Italian sausage or chorizo) to the chili for a spicier, richer flavor. Brown the sausage along with the ground beef for an extra layer of taste.
• Spicy Chipotle Chili: For a smoky, spicy twist, add chipotle peppers in ad

obo sauce to the chili. The chipotle peppers will infuse the dish with a unique depth of flavor and heat.

• Texas-Style Chili (No Beans): Traditional Texas chili doesn’t contain beans, and it focuses on beef and a rich, spicy sauce. You can follow the basic recipe, omitting the beans, and add more beef for a meat-heavy version.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chili Con Carne can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days in an airtight container. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks. Allow the chili to cool before refrigerating.

For longer storage, Chili Con Carne can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the chili cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chili Con Carne

Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides:

• Cornbread: A classic pairing with chili, cornbread’s sweet and savory flavor complements the rich, spicy chili beautifully.
• Rice: Serve your chili over a bed of rice for a filling, comforting meal.
• Tortilla Chips: For a crunchy contrast, serve the chili with crispy tortilla chips or make chili nachos.
• Guacamole and Salsa: For a refreshing, cool contrast, serve your chili with fresh guacamole and salsa.

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Conclusion

Chili Con Carne is a dish that’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger with its rich, savory flavors. With its hearty beef, spicy seasonings, and optional beans, this dish is perfect for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead. By following the simple steps in this recipe, you can create a flavorful pot of chili that everyone will enjoy. Experiment with variations, adjust the spice level, and savor the comforting goodness of this classic dish. Chili Con Carne is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!