Table of Contents
Introduction:
Chili con carne, a fiery and aromatic stew rooted in Tex-Mex cuisine, combines ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and bold spices for a dish that bridges American and Mexican culinary traditions. Once a humble staple, it’s now a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, thanks to its rich, customizable flavors. Serve it over rice, stuffed in tacos, or paired with nachos—each bite promises warmth and satisfaction. Follow this guide to master this timeless dish effortlessly.
Ingredients for Authentic Chili Con Carne
- Ground beef (80/20 fat ratio): 500g
- Fresh chili peppers (chopped): 1–2
- Onion (finely chopped): 1 large
- Garlic cloves (minced): 3–4
- Canned tomatoes: 400g
- Red kidney beans (drained): 1 can (400g)
- Cooking oil: 2 tbsp
- Beef stock or water: 1 cup
- Spices:
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (optional): 1 tsp
- Caster sugar (optional): ½ tsp
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients for Chili Con Carne
- Chop onions, mince garlic, and deseed/chop chilies.
- Drain and rinse kidney beans.
2. Brown the Meat
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until deeply browned (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Base
- Sauté onions in the same pot until translucent. Add garlic and chilies; cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomatoes, spices, and cocoa powder. Cook for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Simmer to Perfection
- Return the beef to the pot. Add beans and stock.
- Simmer uncovered on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Adjust & Rest
- Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or lime juice for balance.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving, or refrigerate overnight for a richer flavor.
Pro Tips for Authentic Flavor
- Meat Matters: Use a mix of ground beef and pork, or add cubed chuck roast for depth.
- Spice Smart: Toast whole spices (cumin, coriander) before grinding for intensity.
- Beans Debate: Purists skip beans, but traditional recipes include them.
- Finish Bright: A squeeze of lime or cilantro garnish elevates the dish.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Classic Comfort: Serve over steamed rice or stuffed into baked potatoes.
- Party Favorite: Pair with nachos, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.
- Taco Night: Use as a filling for tacos or burrito bowls.
- Bread Pairing: Complement with cornbread or crusty garlic bread.
Nutritional Profile on Chili Con Carne (Per 350g Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 28g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 8g | Sodium: 700mg
- Vitamins & Minerals: Iron (3mg), Calcium (80mg), Vitamin C (12mg)
Why Chili Con Carne Stands the Test of Time
Chili con carne’s versatility is its superpower—adapt it with chicken, turkey, or plant-based proteins for dietary needs. Its hearty, smoky-sweet profile, enhanced by slow simmering, makes it a universal crowd-pleaser. Whether feeding a family or prepping meal kits, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful.
Final Tip: Let leftovers sit overnight; the flavors deepen beautifully!
For more tips on achieving the perfect texture and flavor, explore our classic Philly cheesesteak