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Chilli Con Carne

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Chilli Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful Tex-Mex dish made with ground meat, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of spices that create a rich, savory flavor with just the right amount of heat. Perfect for any occasion, this versatile dish is quick to make and can be served with rice, tortillas, or cornbread. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, party, or cozy evening, Chilli Con Carne is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

  • For the Chilli Con Carne:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 onion (diced)

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 bell pepper (diced)

  • 1-2 fresh chili peppers (jalapeño or serrano, optional for extra heat)

  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

  • 1 (14 oz) can black beans (drained and rinsed)

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional, for added brightness)

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • Fresh cilantro (chopped)

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Shredded cheese

  • Sliced green onions

  • Tortilla chips or cornbread (for serving)

Instructions

  • Cook the Meat:
    Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
    Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

  • Sauté the Vegetables:
    Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and fresh chili peppers (if using) to the pot with the cooked meat.
    Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

  • Add the Seasonings:
    Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
    Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to toast and release their flavors.

  • Add the Liquids and Beans:
    Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth (or water), and stir to combine.
    Add the kidney beans and black beans, mixing everything together.

  • Simmer the Chilli:
    Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
    If the chili gets too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

  • Adjust Seasoning:
    Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lime juice (optional) to enhance the flavors.

  • Serve:
    Ladle the Chilli Con Carne into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions if desired.
    Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, or over rice for a complete meal.

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with extra beans (such as pinto beans, black beans, or lentils) or a plant-based meat alternative like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or crumbled tempeh.More Heat: Increase the amount of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or add hotter varieties of chili peppers (like habaneros) for a spicier dish.Sweet Version: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or dark chocolate for a slightly sweet and complex flavor.Slow Cooker Version: Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add beans and adjust seasoning before serving.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/chilli-con-carne/