Chili Con Carne Recipe- Spanish Special
Chili Con Carne, commonly referred to as “chili,” is a flavorful and hearty stew celebrated for its rich, spicy taste and satisfying texture. Hailing from the American Southwest, this dish features a combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of aromatic spices, making it a comforting choice for cooler weather. The term “chili con carne” means “chili with meat” in Spanish, highlighting its essential ingredients and bold flavor.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time1 hr 50 min
- Total Time2 hr 5 min
Chili Con Carne Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion: Finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced
- 1 red bell pepper: Diced
- 1 green bell pepper: Diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans: Drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans: Drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional garnishes: Shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Cook the Beef:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Add Seasonings and Ingredients:
Mix in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
Adjust Seasonings:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your preference.
Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños.
Recipe Notes:
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level of your chili.
Beans: Use any combination of beans you prefer or have on hand. Pinto beans are also a great option.
Thickening: For a thicker chili, you can simmer it longer or mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon.
Storage: Chili con carne stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
