Chili con Carne is a bold and hearty dish that combines tender ground beef, smoky spices, and a rich tomato base for a comforting, flavor-packed meal. This classic Tex-Mex recipe is known for its robust flavors, featuring a blend of chili powder, cumin, and other spices that give it a deep, warming heat. Simmered with beans, tomatoes, and a medley of peppers, Chili con Carne is a versatile dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, game day, or a casual gathering with friends. Serve it with cornbread, over rice, or topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions (for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat:
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Stir in the chopped green and red bell peppers, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Spices:
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried oregano. Cook the spices with the meat and vegetables for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For a deeper flavor, simmer for 1-2 hours.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Chili con Carne into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions as desired. Serve with cornbread, over rice, or with tortilla chips on the side.
Chili con Carne is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion where you want a comforting, satisfying meal. Its blend of spices and hearty ingredients makes it a favorite for anyone who enjoys bold, robust flavors.
