Chilli con carne, often simply known as ‘chilli’, is a beloved dish that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeknights or for entertaining friends on a weekend. The beauty of chilli is its simplicity coupled with its deep, rich flavors that seem like they’ve been simmering all day. Today, I’m thrilled to share an easy chilli con carne recipe that promises to be both comforting and delicious.
What Makes This Chilli Con Carne Recipe Special?
Imagine a chilly evening where the only thing you crave is a bowl of something warm, hearty, and satisfying. That’s where this chilli recipe comes into play. With a perfect blend of spices, a hint of heat, and a symphony of ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
This easy recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients into a pot; it’s about creating memories around the dining table. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the heat or add additional ingredients based on what your family loves. Whether you’re a chilli aficionado or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through making a foolproof pot of chilli that everyone will rave about.
Where Does Chilli Con Carne Originate From?
The origins of chilli con carne are as rich and contested as the dish itself. While it’s widely recognized as a Tex-Mex dish today, its roots can be traced back to the American Southwest, with influences and claims from various cultures and states. This culinary delight was likely born out of the necessity to create a filling meal with affordable and accessible ingredients. The basic elements of chilli—meat and peppers—were staples among cowboys and travelers in the Old West.
As chilli con carne traveled, it evolved, embracing local flavors and ingredients, which is why there are so many variations today. It’s this adaptability that has made chilli con carne a beloved dish in countless households across the globe, especially in places like the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Why Is This Dish Beneficial?
Not only is this chilli con carne easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients. It combines high-protein beef with fiber-rich beans and a variety of spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Chilli can be a healthful dish that supports a balanced diet when prepared with an eye on ingredients and portions.
For a step-by-step visual and auditory guide on how to make this delicious and easy chilli con carne, you can check out the detailed instructions below. This guide will help ensure you create the perfect dish every time.
Easy Chilli Con Carne Recipe: Ready in under 1 hour!
Description
Chilli con carne, often simply known as 'chilli', is a classic dish cherished for its ability to warm the heart and tantalize the taste buds. It’s perfect for both bustling weeknights and weekend gatherings, embodying simplicity with its deep, rich flavors that mimic hours of slow cooking. This easy chilli con carne recipe offers a comforting and delicious meal that is as rewarding to cook as it is to eat.
Ingredient of Chilli Con Carne Recipe
Optional Add-ons:
Instructions of Chilli Con Carne Recipe
Brown the Beef:
In your large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart with your wooden spoon. Once browned, remove the beef and drain any excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot for sautéing the vegetables.
Sauté Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot, sautéing until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and sugar if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chilli should thicken and flavors meld beautifully.
Garnish and Serve:
Once the chilli is thick and flavorful, adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, and if desired, a dollop of sour cream, grated cheese, and chopped green onions.
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 325kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 8g32%
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Storage: Leftover chilli tastes even better the next day and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adaptability: Feel free to add more vegetables like corn or zucchini for a twist or adjust the spiciness with extra chili powder or diced jalapeños.
