Classic Chilli Con Carne
A robust beef chili with kidney beans and warming spices. The ultimate crowd-pleaser for game days or cozy nights.
Details
You Might Also Like
French Onion Pot Roast
Harissa Roasted Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Dark chocolate square (secret ingredient)
Instructions
- 1
Brown beef in a large pot. Drain excess fat.
- 2
Add onion and pepper. Cook until soft.
- 3
Stir in garlic and spices, cooking for 1 minute.
- 4
Add tomato paste, tomatoes, and stock. Bring to boil.
- 5
Reduce heat. Simmer covered for 45 minutes.
- 6
Stir in beans and chocolate. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken.
- 7
Serve with rice, sour cream, or tortilla chips.
About This Recipe
Chilli con Carne is more than just a stew; it's an emblem of Tex-Mex culinary heritage, evolving from the working-class kitchens of San Antonio in the late 19th century into a beloved American comfort food. Its name, simply meaning 'chili with meat,' belies the depth of flavor achieved through thoughtful preparation. This robust rendition celebrates the classic profile with rich ground beef, vibrant aromatics, and the warming trio of chili powder, cumin, and paprika. The magic unfolds as the beef is deeply browned, creating a maillard reaction that forms the savory backbone, followed by the gentle softening of onions and peppers before the tomatoes, beans, and stock are introduced. A critical yet often surprising element is the dark chocolate square; it doesn't sweeten the chili but rather enhances its umami, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and adding an incredible, nuanced richness that elevates every spoonful. While often served simply, classic variations might include pinto or black beans, different chili peppers for varied heat, or even a splash of dark beer. Perfect for game day gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, this chili truly shines when paired with fluffy cornbread, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar and fresh cilantro.
Tips & Tricks
- • Achieve maximum flavor by browning your ground beef deeply until well-caramelized, then drain any excess fat before adding the aromatics. This crucial step develops a rich, savory foundation for your chili.
- • For a deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika along with the chili powder and cumin, or substitute the kidney beans with black beans for a slight textural variation.
- • Chilli con Carne is a fantastic make-ahead meal; its flavors deepen significantly overnight. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of stock or water if it's too thick.
- • Elevate your serving with a dollop of cool sour cream, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chopped cilantro. Don't forget a side of warm cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)