Chilli Con Carne
Chilli con carne is a classic Tex-Mex dish that combines ground meat, beans, and a medley of spices for a flavorful experience. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this chilli con carne will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Dive into this ultimate comfort food recipe that promises to deliver warmth and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can kidney beans, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of chilli con carne contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 8g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Mix in the chopped bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; mix well.
7. Pour in the diced tomatoes and kidney beans.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, use black beans instead of kidney beans for a different flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Chilli con carne pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also serve it with a side salad or top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, and jalapeños for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chilli con carne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality meat can affect flavor—choose good quality ground beef.
- Not browning the meat properly can lead to a bland taste.
- Overcooking can make the beans mushy—add them later in the cooking process.
- Too little seasoning will make the dish flat—taste and adjust as necessary.
- Skipping the simmering step will reduce flavor development.
Helpful Tips
- Let the chilli sit for a while before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Experiment with different types of beans for variety.
- Adjust the spice level by adding fresh chilies or hot sauce.
- Top with fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
FAQs
What is the best type of meat for chilli con carne?
Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey or plant-based alternatives work well too. Select what suits your dietary preferences.
Can I make chilli con carne in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is chilli con carne spicy?
The spice level can vary depending on the amount of chili powder and additional spices used. You can adjust it to your taste.
How can I thicken my chilli con carne?
To thicken, let it simmer uncovered to reduce liquid, or mix in a cornstarch slurry or some masa harina.
Can I add vegetables to chilli con carne?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, and zucchini are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Chilli con carne is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. With its hearty ingredients and warming spices, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it your own by customizing the ingredients and serving it with your favorite sides. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor every bite of this delicious classic!
Chilli Con Carne
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can kidney beans drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Mix in the chopped bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and paprika; mix well.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and kidney beans.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
