Chili Con Carne

Introduction

Chili con carne is a dish that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. This hearty, comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Growing up, my family would often prepare a big pot of chili on chilly evenings, and the aroma wafting through the house was irresistible. As the chili simmered, we could hardly wait to dive in. The combination of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and robust spices always left us satisfied and asking for seconds.

I’ve adapted my family’s traditional recipe over the years, enhancing it with a few personal touches. The result is a rich and flavorful chili that never fails to impress. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet delicious enough to serve at a gathering. Whether you’re a chili enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Brown Meat

4. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add Spices

6. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.

Combine Ingredients

7. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer

8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
9. Cover and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with rice, crusty bread, or tortilla chips!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls.
• Top with fresh cilantro or diced onions.
• Pair with:
• Rice
• Crusty bread
• Tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheese

Additional Tips

1. Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your taste. Add jalapeños for an extra kick!
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your chili.
3. Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge.
4. Thickening Your Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
5. Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the meat with lentils or extra beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spicy Chili: Add diced green chilies or hot sauce for a spicier version.
• White Chicken Chili: Use shredded chicken instead of ground beef and replace kidney beans with white beans.
• Chili Mac: Stir in cooked macaroni for a chili mac dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Create a chili bar with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and avocado.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow chili to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and can make the dish lighter.
2. Is chili con carne spicy?
   The spice level depends on the amount of chili powder and additional spices you use. Adjust to your taste.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
4. What kind of beans can I use?
   Kidney beans are traditional, but you can also use black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Yes! Feel free to add corn, zucchini, or even carrots for added nutrition.
6. Is it necessary to drain the beans?
   Yes, draining and rinsing beans helps remove excess sodium and improves the texture of the chili.
7. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; just dice and use about 2 cups.
8. How can I make it gluten-free?
   Ensure your broth and any seasonings are gluten-free. Most canned beans and tomatoes are safe as well.
9. What can I do with leftovers?
   Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated. It can also be used in other recipes, such as chili mac or stuffed peppers.
10. Can I add cheese to the chili?
    Yes! Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy texture or sprinkle on top when serving.

Conclusion

Chili con carne is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings friends and family together. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The rich flavors and heartiness of this dish will surely leave everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of chili con carne—it’s time to dig in!

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