Chilli Con Carne
Chilli con carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of beef with the warmth of spices and the freshness of beans and tomatoes. This beloved recipe is not only perfect for family dinners but also for gatherings with friends. Its robust flavors will surely warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. Whether served over rice or with warm tortillas, chilli con carne is a meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
– 500g minced beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (400g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
For one serving (250g), chilli con carne contains approximately 350 calories, 25g of protein, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 8g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced beef and cook until browned.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add the kidney beans, cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, garnished with cheese or jalapeños if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter option. Additionally, use black beans instead of kidney beans, or add corn for a sweeter flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Chilli con carne pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or cornbread. It can also be served with a side of fresh avocado or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilli con carne can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality meat can affect the flavor.
- Not browning the meat properly can result in a less rich flavor.
- Overcooking the beans can make them mushy.
- Skipping spices leads to blandness.
- Not letting it simmer long enough can prevent flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Let the dish rest for a bit before serving to enhance flavors.
- Add a splash of lime juice for brightness.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh touch.
FAQs
Can I make chilli con carne vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is chilli con carne?
The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder or using milder peppers based on your preference.
What can I serve with chilli con carne?
Chilli con carne is great with rice, tortillas, cornbread, or even over baked potatoes.
Can I freeze chilli con carne?
Absolutely! Chilli con carne freezes well. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container.
How long does it take to cook chilli con carne?
The total cooking time is about 45 minutes, including preparation and simmering.
Conclusion
Chilli con carne is a comforting, robust dish that embodies the warmth of home cooking. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed alone or with friends, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Chilli Con Carne
Ingredients
- 500 g minced beef
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 can 400g diced tomatoes
- 1 can 400g kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced beef and cook until browned.
- Add the diced bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add the kidney beans, cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with cheese or jalapeños if desired.
