The scent of Chili Con Carne in the air is magical. It feels like home, no matter where you are. This hearty meal unites people around the world. It speaks a delicious language everyone loves.
My first taste of this dish was in Austin, Texas. A friend suggested we cook it after exploring the city. I was amazed. Once those ingredients joined in the pot, the kitchen filled with a delightful aroma that hinted at a great meal. I instantly experienced true Texan warmth and fell in love.
Chili Con Carne has roots in the American Southwest, with Texas proudly claiming its creation. This classic Tex-Mex dish has reached hearts everywhere. Traditionally, it uses ground or diced beef, tomatoes, and a blend of chiles for that spicy zing. Each ingredient is carefully selected, creating rich flavors and textures that make it special.
Concerned about health? You will be happy to know that Chili Con Carne can be nutritious. It is rich in protein and fiber, especially when beans are included. While the classic recipe uses beef, feel free to adapt it. You can swap beef for turkey or make it vegetarian with extra beans or lentils. Throw in more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance nutrition without losing flavor.
Each ingredient enhances the flavor and offers health benefits.
Excited to start cooking? Begin by heating the oil and sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add the bell pepper and cook until the onions are translucent. Brown the ground beef, then stir in the spices, letting those flavors meld together. After that, mix in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beans, along with the bouillon and sugar. Bring it all to a simmer, choosing either a quick-cook or slow-cook method based on your time and preference. As the sauce thickens, a beautiful flavor will develop. Remember to taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Making Chili Con Carne from scratch brings a delightful sense of pride. Whether it’s served over fluffy rice, with crunchy corn chips, or in a simple bowl, it warms hearts and fills bellies. Sharing this meal with loved ones and seeing their joy with each bite is truly rewarding.
So, when you crave a comforting, tasty meal, why not try Chili Con Carne? It’s flexible, inviting you to customize it while keeping its delicious spirit. Happy cooking, and savor each spoonful of your homemade Chili Con Carne!
To make the Chili Con Carne, you will need the following ingredients:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
Add 1 diced bell pepper and cook until the onions are translucent, for 2 minutes.
Increase the heat to high and add 1 pound ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until mostly browned.
Add 1 – 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, 4 teaspoons paprika powder, 5 teaspoons cumin powder, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 2 teaspoons oregano, 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt and stir to combine. Cook until the beef is browned all over.
Add 3 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 (28-oz / 800-g) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (14-oz / 420-g) can red kidney beans, 2 crumbled beef bouillon cubes, and 1 ½ teaspoons sugar.
For Quick Cook, add ½ cup of water; for Slow Cook, use 1 ½ cups. Bring to a simmer and then adjust the heat:
Quick Cook: Simmer uncovered for 20 to 40 minutes on medium-low heat. OR
Slow Cook: Simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat.
Taste and adjust the seasoning for salt if necessary.
Serve over rice or ladle into bowls, and serve with corn chips or warm tortillas on the side, along with desired toppings.
Chili Con Carne is a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, this recipe becomes a family favorite with its rich, savory sauce. If you prefer the meat in your chili to be very tender, simmer your batch longer. Ideal for cozy evenings or gatherings, serve it over rice or with tortillas for a satisfying dining experience. Give this recipe a go and remember to tag us @cookmerecipes on social media – we love seeing your creations!
It's one of our family favorite spicy stew!
