Chili Con Carne

The moment I think of Chili Con Carne, I’m transported back to cozy evenings spent huddled around the dinner table with family and friends. There’s something magical about the rich aroma of spices that fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather and indulge in a bowl of warmth. This dish, a robust blend of flavors and textures, not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, evolving over time but always retaining its essence. Preparing Chili Con Carne is more than just cooking; it’s a cherished tradition that brings us together, making every bite a celebration of love and togetherness.

Shopping List for Chili Con Carne

When it comes to making Chili Con Carne, the ingredient selection is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Each component plays a significant role, from the spices that add warmth to the hearty beans that provide texture. Together, they create a dish that is not only satisfying but also rich in flavor.

• 1 large onion – Diced for sweetness and base flavor.
• 1 kilogram ground beef – The protein powerhouse that gives this dish its heartiness.
• 2 cloves garlic – Adds depth and aroma.
• 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste – For a rich tomato flavor.
• 2 red bird’s eye chilies – Finely chopped to bring the heat.
• 250 grams red kidney beans – Canned and rinsed for creaminess.
• 250 milliliters tomato soup – Adds moisture and flavor.
• 400 grams peeled tomatoes – Provides a fresh tomato base.
• 1 green capsicum – Diced for sweetness and crunch.
• Tabasco sauce – For an extra kick of heat.
• 1 tablespoon cumin – Adds warm, earthy notes.
• 1 tablespoon coriander – Complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1/4 tablespoon thyme – Introduces a subtle herbal flavor.
• 1/4 tablespoon chili powder – Enhances the overall spice level.
• Sea salt flakes – Essential for seasoning.
• Pepper – Freshly ground to taste.
• Olive oil – For sautéing and flavor.

Step by Step Instructions for Chili Con Carne

Making Chili Con Carne is a journey filled with delicious aromas and flavors. As you follow these steps, you’ll create a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the heart. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

1. Start by browning the ground beef in a large fry pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it’s cooked thoroughly, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step locks in the flavors and gives the meat a nice texture. Look for a golden-brown color for that delicious caramelization.

2. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil and add the diced onion, chopped bird’s eye chilies, and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture over medium-high heat until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your Chili Con Carne.

3. Next, incorporate the cumin, coriander, thyme, and dried chili into the pot. Stir well and sauté for another five minutes. You’ll start to notice the spices releasing their aromatic oils, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent.

4. Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring it in well. Let it cook for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. You want the paste to caramelize slightly, which adds richness to your dish.

5. Now it’s time to add the browned beef, along with its juices, into the pot. Pour in the tomato soup, rinsed kidney beans, and canned tomatoes. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Allow it to bubble gently for at least two hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking time is crucial as it melds the flavors beautifully.

7. After two hours, add the diced capsicum into the pot. This adds a fresh crunch to your Chili Con Carne. Continue simmering for another half an hour, letting the capsicum soften while the flavors marry.

8. Once everything is cooked, taste your dish for seasoning. Add sea salt flakes, pepper, and a splash of Tabasco sauce for an extra kick, adjusting to your preference. This is the moment to make it your own!

9. Finally, serve your Chili Con Carne piping hot, accompanied by steamed rice, crunchy corn chips, or warm bread. For an added treat, top it with a dollop of guacamole and some shredded cheese!

Expert Tips about Chili Con Carne

When it comes to perfecting your Chili Con Carne, there are a few expert tips that can elevate your dish. Here are some insights:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be frozen for later use.
• Freezing: You can freeze Chili Con Carne for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: Serve with warm cornbread or a side of coleslaw for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Spice it up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of beans or add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a unique twist.
• Serving suggestion: For a fun twist, serve it in a bread bowl or over baked potatoes for a filling meal.

Serving Options for Chili Con Carne

Serving Chili Con Carne can be as creative as you want. Here are some delightful options:

• Classic Pairing: Serve your Chili Con Carne with a side of fluffy rice or crunchy corn chips for that perfect combination of textures.
• Game Day Delight: It’s the ultimate dish for game day! Set up a taco bar alongside, where guests can build their own tacos.
• Winter Warmer: Perfect for cold winter nights, serve alongside garlic bread or a hearty salad to balance the meal.
• Family Gatherings: Make it a centerpiece during family gatherings, offering toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for everyone to customize their bowl.
• Meal Prep: This dish is excellent for meal prep. Portion it out for lunches during the week, it heats up beautifully!
• Seasonal Twists: In warmer months, consider serving it chilled as a topping for salads, adding a refreshing twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes this Chili Con Carne special is its ability to bring people together around the table, sharing warmth, laughter, and delicious flavors. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. I encourage you to try making it tonight, and let it fill your home with delightful aromas and happy moments!

Chili Con Carne

The ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out, Chili Con Carne combines rich spices with hearty ingredients for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is a must-try tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1 large onion
• 1 kg 1 kilogram ground beef
• 2 2 cloves garlic
• 2-3 tbsp 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 2 red bird's eye chilies
• 250 g 250 grams red kidney beans canned, rinsed
• 250 ml 250 milliliters tomato soup canned, not diluted
• 400 g 400 grams peeled tomatoes canned
• 1 1 green capsicum diced
• to taste Tabasco sauce
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon cumin ground
• 1 tbsp 1 tablespoon coriander ground
• 1/4 tbsp 1/4 tablespoon thyme dried
• 1/4 tbsp 1/4 tablespoon chili powder dried
• to taste sea salt flakes
• to taste pepper grinded
• to taste olive oil

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Start by browning the ground beef in a large fry pan over medium-high heat. Ensure it's cooked thoroughly, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step locks in the flavors and gives the meat a nice texture. Look for a golden-brown color for that delicious caramelization.
2. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil and add the diced onion, chopped bird’s eye chilies, and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture over medium-high heat until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your Chili Con Carne.
3. Next, incorporate the cumin, coriander, thyme, and dried chili into the pot. Stir well and sauté for another five minutes. You’ll start to notice the spices releasing their aromatic oils, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent.
4. Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring it in well. Let it cook for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen. You want the paste to caramelize slightly, which adds richness to your dish.
5. Now it’s time to add the browned beef, along with its juices, into the pot. Pour in the tomato soup, rinsed kidney beans, and canned tomatoes. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Allow it to bubble gently for at least two hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking time is crucial as it melds the flavors beautifully.
7. After two hours, add the diced capsicum into the pot. This adds a fresh crunch to your Chili Con Carne. Continue simmering for another half an hour, letting the capsicum soften while the flavors marry.
8. Once everything is cooked, taste your dish for seasoning. Add sea salt flakes, pepper, and a splash of Tabasco sauce for an extra kick, adjusting to your preference. This is the moment to make it your own!
9. Finally, serve your Chili Con Carne piping hot, accompanied by steamed rice, crunchy corn chips, or warm bread. For an added treat, top it with a dollop of guacamole and some shredded cheese!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be frozen for later use.
• Freezing: You can freeze Chili Con Carne for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: Serve with warm cornbread or a side of coleslaw for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Spice it up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of beans or add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a unique twist.
• Serving suggestion: For a fun twist, serve it in a bread bowl or over baked potatoes for a filling meal.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.